This study aims to shed light on the complex relationship between education, achievement, and place in two of Belfast's urban communities.

The Research Project

The study will involve:

• Collaboration with the Market Development Area and the Greater Shankill Partnership.
• Three-month placements in each of these communities.
• Codesigning the research project with the communities.
• A place-based approach to understanding education inequalities.

 

About Me

My name is Amy O'Riordan, I am 24 years old, and I’m from Co. Limerick.

I attended secondary school in Tarbert, Co. Kerry, and later made the decision to continue my education in Limerick. In 2022, I graduated from the University of Limerick with a degree in Physical Education and Geography. This academic journey inspired me to further my studies, leading me to pursue a Master’s in Educational Studies at Queen’s University Belfast.

For my master's dissertation, I focused on the topic "Constructions, Perceptions, and Counter-Stories of Education by Young People from a Recognised Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Area in Belfast, Northern Ireland." Here, I had the opportunity to work with a youth centre in Belfast, where I explored the challenges faced by working-class youth within formal education systems, highlighting their unique experiences and perspectives.

In 2023 I taught Geography to students aged 12-18 in a Delivering Equal Opportunities (DEIS) school in North County Dublin. This experience allowed me to work with students, teachers, and stakeholders from various backgrounds.

While I loved teaching, when the opportunity to pursue this PhD came up, I could not pass it up. I saw it as a chance to carry out research an area I'm passionate about and be part of a team with so much experience. Plus, it fulfils a lifelong dream of mine to do a PhD!

 

How I feel about joining the QCAP team

As I navigate the early stages of my new role, I’m excited about being part of this dynamic team.

The opportunity to engage with such a diverse group of people and hearing their perspectives and insights is invaluable. Having colleagues to share ideas and concerns with has already been incredibly helpful, and I'm eager to continue contributing to and benefiting from this collaborative environment.

 

Looking Ahead

As I look to the future, I'm particularly excited about working closely with communities to forge meaningful connections and collaborate with fellow researchers and community stakeholders.

I also look forward to deepening my understanding of place-based education and exploring how it uniquely manifests across the diverse communities I will engage with.

Ultimately, I’m eager to learn more about the communities, the field of research and my developing role within QCAP.