May 2025 Newsletter
"Learning Together, Growing Stronger."
Dear Friends, Supporters & Families,
May has been a busy and uplifting month at Phoenix Education Centre! As always, we’ve continued working to provide inclusive, supportive, and engaging spaces for our community through educational activities, trips, discussions, and events that foster learning and connection. Whether you’re a regular attendee or just learning about us, thank you for being part of our journey.
Here’s a detailed look back at what’s been happening, and a preview of what’s on the horizon in June.
📚 May Book Club Recap – The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
Our May Book Club featured the much-loved novel The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. This powerful story, set in a multicultural community in 1970s Pennsylvania, weaves together themes of race, belonging, and quiet acts of resistance. The group had rich discussions about identity, empathy, and how small communities often hold the greatest wisdom.
What stood out this month was how the book brought different generations together. Attendees shared personal experiences that resonated with the book’s themes, and many said it inspired them to think more deeply about the role of compassion and community in today’s world.
🏛️ Cregagh Group Visits Belfast City Hall – 28 May 2025
One of the highlights of the month was the Cregagh group’s visit to Belfast City Hall. On a sunny afternoon, the group toured the historic building, learned about its architecture, and explored exhibitions on Belfast’s past and present. They also had the chance to discuss civic responsibility, local politics, and the importance of active engagement in their own communities.
For many participants, this was their first time inside City Hall – and the experience left a lasting impression. The outing was more than just a field trip; it was a moment of empowerment, where young people saw how their voices and perspectives matter in public life.
We’re incredibly proud of this group for representing Phoenix with enthusiasm and curiosity throughout the visit.
☕ IFI Group Attends Coffee Morning at Walkway – 14 May 2025
The IFI (International Fund for Ireland) group attended a warm, welcoming environment at their community coffee morning held at the Walkway Centre on 14 May. This gathering was meaningful space for conversation, laughter, and sharing.
🎲 IFI Group Fun Activities – Creativity, Connection & Confidence
In addition to the coffee morning, the IFI group enjoyed a variety of fun and skill-building activities throughout May. From group games and team challenges to arts and crafts sessions, these activities were designed to help young people explore their interests, express themselves, and build positive relationships.
These moments of fun are more than just recreational – they’re key to personal growth and mental well-being. We’re proud of how our young people stepped up and supported one another in these sessions.
Looking Ahead – Upcoming Events in June
Here’s a preview of some exciting events and programs happening in June. We hope to see you at one (or all!) of them.
🧑💼 Phoenix Education Centre Job Fair
📍 Avoniel Leisure Centre, 26th June, 10AM-2PM
We’re thrilled to be hosting a Job Fair in June that will bring together local employers, training organisations, and job seekers under one roof. Whether you’re looking for full-time work, training opportunities, apprenticeships, or just exploring your options, this event is for you!
Open to all ages, especially those who have taken part in our employability and Essential Skills programmes. Let’s get East Belfast working together.
🎒 P7 Into Year 8 Transition Camp
📅 August 11-15 2025
📍 Phoenix Education Centre
Changing schools can be daunting – but it doesn’t have to be. Our Transition Camp is designed to help Primary 7 pupils feel confident and prepared as they head into Year 8. Through games, group discussions, and confidence-building exercises, participants will make friends, learn strategies for managing stress, and get excited about what lies ahead.
This free programme is open to any student in East Belfast who may benefit from a little extra support as they prepare for the next chapter in their education.
Sign up using our survey monkey link below:
📖 June Book Club – Common Decency by Susanna Dickey
📅 Tuesday, 17 June at 6:30 PM
📍 Phoenix Education Centre
Our June read is Common Decency by Belfast-born author Susanna Dickey – a darkly funny and sharp novel exploring morality, voyeurism, and the politics of perception. Set in a Northern Irish apartment block, this book promises to stir up a lively discussion, and we can’t wait to hear what our members think of this read.
Final Words
Whether you’re participating in our book club, joining a youth group, preparing for work, or just dropping in for a chat – know that you are always welcome here at Phoenix. We’re more than just an education centre – we’re a place for second chances, for creativity, for community, and for hope.
Thank you to our staff, volunteers, funders, and – most importantly – our participants, for making May such a rewarding month. We look forward to seeing you in June!
With warmth,
The Phoenix Education Centre NI Team