Friday 13th November 2015 marked a special occasion in the life of Bangor Independent Christian School. It was the Annual Prizegiving but the occasion also marked the fact that the School has been in existence for 30 years – having opened its doors in September 1985.
The proceedings were led by the School Administrator, Rev. David Priestley, and following the singing of the School hymn, Rev. Paul Foster (past pupil) was asked to commit the meeting to the Lord in prayer. The Primary and Secondary pupils then sang two hymns and a short time later they played some instrumental music which was most enjoyable.
We were delighted that the first School Administrator, Rev. William McDermott, and the first School Principal, Mrs Elizabeth Rutherdale were able to be present on this memorable occasion. Rev. McDermott spoke of the desire of parents to have a Christian School where their children could be taught not just the academic subjects but also the Word of God. Rev. McDermott gave a brief outline of how the school came about and related some amusing accounts of school life in those early days.
The present School Principal, Mrs Ruth Daly, who succeeded Mrs Rutherdale in 2005, gave her annual report and thanked all those present – pupils, parents, staff , support workers, Administrator and School Board – who work so hard to make the School a success. Mrs Daly also referred to the work of Sunbeams Pre-School Group which started in 2006 – the first leader being Mrs Elizabeth McVeigh, now led by Miss Elinor Foster and her team of helpers: Mrs Susan Mayne, Mrs Margaret Davidson and Miss Irene Magowan.
It was also fitting that the Convenor of the Presbytery Education Board, Rev. Brian McClung, was present on this occasion. Rev. McClung preached from Hebrews Chapter 6 verse 10: ‘For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward His name…’
This was followed by the presentation of prizes for the academic year 2014 -2015. Apart from swimming certificates, OLA French certificates, attendance certificates and GCSE certificates there were a number of shields and cups. The evening ended with a photographic display covering the past 30 years and of course the supper which was enjoyed by all present.
