Scope Articles

Childcare needs support, and right now – for everyone’s benefit

25 Nov 2022

For too long, childcare in Northern Ireland has been treated as an afterthought. As inflation hits its highest rate for over four decades, the pressure on both providers and parents is coming to a head.

It isn’t easy to leave abuse behind

7 Sep 2022

People in abusive relationships need the confidence to know that, if they leave, they can do so safely – and with plenty of support.

Improving the care system: a massive task that’s worth the effort

1 Sep 2022

There is no single way to maximise the outcomes for children in care. Big improvements are possible, but reform will take time.

Youth justice: on the cusp of modernity?

18 Jul 2022

NI is behind the times when it comes to children and the justice system. Plans for change have been announced – and not before time – but still need to be realised.

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.

Search form

Filter by a topic of your interest