Join Us in Serving Our Community: Support Aspire NI's Homework Club at Currie Primary School
At St. Paul’s & St. Barnabas Church (SPB), we are called to serve our community in meaningful and transformative ways. This calling is grounded in Scripture, where we are reminded that “each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10). One of the most urgent needs in our local community is supporting the educational journey of young people, and we are excited to be supporting the work of Aspire NI and their Homework Club at Currie Primary School in North Belfast.
The Educational Challenge in North Belfast
North Belfast, like many urban areas, faces significant challenges in education. Research from the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) shows that the educational attainment gap is more pronounced in areas of high deprivation. Schools in North Belfast see lower-than-average achievement levels, with only about 40% of students from disadvantaged backgrounds leaving school with five or more GCSEs at grades A*-C, compared to the Northern Ireland average of 69%.
However, it’s essential to highlight that Currie Primary School is doing an incredible job despite these challenges. The dedicated staff at Currie work tirelessly to provide their pupils with a safe, supportive, and nurturing learning environment. They are passionate about helping every child reach their full potential, even when circumstances outside the classroom present obstacles. Their efforts are commendable, and many children have already made significant strides thanks to the school's commitment to their well-being and academic success.
Why Volunteering Matters
While Currie’s staff are doing excellent work, they face a demanding task, as many students require extra support to keep up with their peers. That’s where volunteers can make a real difference. Aspire NI's Homework Club, which takes place at Currie Primary School, is designed to provide this additional support. Volunteers can offer one-on-one help with reading, writing, and maths, giving students the personalized attention they need to succeed.
By giving just a few hours of your time each week, you can help complement the work already being done by the fantastic team at Currie. Your involvement can give children the confidence and encouragement they need to overcome the challenges they face and realize their God-given potential. As Proverbs 22:6 says, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
Supporting Aspire NI’s Work
We are blessed to support Aspire NI as they work to close the educational attainment gap for children living in poverty. Their Homework Club at Currie Primary School is just one example of how they are making a difference, and we believe that by coming alongside them, we can help extend their reach and impact. While it is Aspire’s club, our support—along with that of Alexander Presbyterian Church—is essential to help ensure it can continue to grow and serve more children in need.
Why Currie Primary School?
Currie Primary School has been a cornerstone of our community for many years. The school serves a large number of students who face additional challenges that can make learning more difficult, but through the dedication of its staff, it continues to provide high-quality education and care for all its pupils. The teachers at Currie work tirelessly to meet the individual needs of each student, helping them overcome barriers to learning and fostering a positive school experience.
However, some students may need extra help to stay on track academically, and Aspire’s Homework Club offers the chance for volunteers to provide that support. By offering additional learning support outside of school hours, we can help students build confidence, stay engaged, and achieve academic success that might otherwise seem out of reach.
Get Involved Today
We are actively encouraging volunteers to support Aspire NI's Homework Club at Currie Primary School, and we would love to have you join us. Whether you can commit to a few hours a week or are available for special projects, your contribution will make a huge difference. As Matthew 25:40 reminds us, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
How to Sign Up
If you feel called to help, please get in touch with us at SPB or visit Aspire NI's website to fill out a volunteer application form. Volunteering is not only a way to give back, but it’s also an opportunity to grow in your faith, build relationships, and make a lasting difference in the life of a young person.
Together, we can help close the educational attainment gap in North Belfast and give these children the support they need to flourish. Let’s come together, empowered by the love of Christ, to serve our neighbours and build a stronger, more hopeful community for everyone.
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