Scope Articles

Youth organisations have a big role in improving child mental health

7 Apr 2022

The wellbeing of Northern Ireland’s children and young people remains a concern. Local youth groups could do with better financial support – and help building systems where they can collaborate.

Can children make their parents care about climate change?

22 Feb 2022

A survey of NI parents found, for the first time, that climate change is an emerging worry. This could change attitudes across all of society – and lead to action.

Northern Ireland’s education system lets deaf children fall behind

A newborn baby hearing test (photo by Solen Feyissa on Unsplash)

3 Feb 2022

Deaf children should perform just as well as their peers. Right now, this isn’t happening. Better support would allow children to thrive.

We all have a part to play in reducing violence against women

18 Jan 2022

Northern Ireland is the most dangerous place in Europe to be a woman. That has to change. Everyone – including all men – has a role in creating a safer society.

What would happen if we abandoned academic selection?

16 Dec 2021

A new UU report looks at education north and south of the border. In any such comparison, it’s hard not to focus on the transfer tests.

Schools should look forwards, not back

Lagan College at 40: (l-r) Principal Amanda McNamee, head boy Jude Hinds, head girl Rosa Day, Education Minister Michelle McIlveen, former pupils Richard Sherry and Clare Bailey MLA

1 Dec 2021

These days, Northern Ireland’s schools system is arguably more segregated than the society it serves. This has to change.

Not all young people are Digital Natives

20 Jul 2021

Digital exclusion might not effect a huge proportion of children – albeit a lack of data makes it hard to be sure – but those who are excluded are at a massive disadvantage.

Why children need a Summer of Play

29 Jun 2021

Play is in our nature – and it’s there for a reason. Scope speaks with PlayBoard NI CEO Jacqueline O’Loughlin about how children and young people need more support to explore themselves and the world around them.

Relationships and Sexuality Education should be standardised, comprehensive, more inclusive – and mandatory

Consent is in the dictionary - but it is vital for young people to discuss what it means

8 Jun 2021

Northern Ireland gives educators a lot of leeway on RSE. Some local organisations say the system needs to be tightened to avoid failing children.

Autism services are not fit for purpose

13 May 2021

It would be simple to call anything and everything a priority as we look beyond Covid-19 – but the need for better support for autism truly does stand apart.

Transfer tests headed for crunch time

Prof Siobhan O'Neill with Health Minister Robin Swann

7 Dec 2020

Calls to cancel this year’s post-primary transfer tests continue to mount – and the list of barriers to a fair testing process is growing. The Education Minister is gambling on everything going smoothly.

Pandemic transfer test debate lacks a resolution

3 Nov 2020

Even if the transfer test goes ahead, it might cause more problems than it prevents for an Education Minister who is wholly committed to academic selection.

Younger voices feel sidelined during the pandemic

Ardoyne Youth Enterprise is running a writing competition for young people. There are many ways to get young people engaged with the world around them - and to have their voice heard.

22 Sep 2020

An NI Youth Forum survey asked young people about their experiences of, and thoughts about, lockdown. It highlights concerns about mental health and education – and about not being listened to.

Lockdown babies: how Covid-19 has impacted infants and their parents

2 Sep 2020

Today’s babies and infants are having a peculiar – and challenging – start to their lives. It has affected their behaviour, wellbeing and likely their development. They and their parents need more support.

Is Northern Ireland ready to go back to school?

17 Aug 2020

The local R number is above one, which is a potential disaster given schools are supposed to open their doors in a week or two. Renewed restrictions elsewhere could be needed.

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