OMAGH BOMB SURVIVOR HAS DESIGNS ON A NEW CAREER
Omagh bomb survivor has designs on a new career
By Claire Regan
EDUCATION CORRESPONDENT
A FORMER primary school teacher, who retired after being injured in the Omagh bombing, was one of 350 students to receive an award today at the annual presentation of certificates and diplomas at the North West Institute of Further & Higher Education.
Art and Design student Teresa Poyntz, a mother-of-three from Drumquin, Co Tyrone, undertook a Higher National Diploma in Design (textiles) at the Institute last year and recently exhibited some of her work at an art show which she organised to raise funds for charity.
Today's award marks the result of a major career change for Mrs Poyntz who retired after 18 years of teaching when she was injured in the Omagh bombing in 1998.
She signed up with the Institute last year to indulge in her love of art and design.
Speaking today, the student paid tribute to her fellow classmates and tutors for their support in helping her fulfil her career ambitions.
"My time at the Institute was extremely enjoyable and very worthwhile," she said.
"I made so many friends from the course, and it's thanks to the staff who gave me the chance to develop my career aspirations as a designer."
The Institute's annual graduation ceremony acknowledged the academic achievements of its students over the previous year.
Awards were presented to students in a number of areas including subjects at degree, foundation degree and HND level. Highlights included the presentation of special individual awards to students who had made an outstanding contribution or achievement during the year.
Addressing the ceremony, director Seamus Murphy said that the Institute, which is based in Londonderry, was committed to meeting the lifelong learning needs of the community, and commended the achievements of students who were receiving awards.
"North West Institute is about providing quality education and training for all, and prides itself on offering those programmes which address the needs of our community," he said.
" I warmly congratulate all winners at today's ceremony," he added.
By Claire Regan
EDUCATION CORRESPONDENT
A FORMER primary school teacher, who retired after being injured in the Omagh bombing, was one of 350 students to receive an award today at the annual presentation of certificates and diplomas at the North West Institute of Further & Higher Education.
Art and Design student Teresa Poyntz, a mother-of-three from Drumquin, Co Tyrone, undertook a Higher National Diploma in Design (textiles) at the Institute last year and recently exhibited some of her work at an art show which she organised to raise funds for charity.
Today's award marks the result of a major career change for Mrs Poyntz who retired after 18 years of teaching when she was injured in the Omagh bombing in 1998.
She signed up with the Institute last year to indulge in her love of art and design.
Speaking today, the student paid tribute to her fellow classmates and tutors for their support in helping her fulfil her career ambitions.
"My time at the Institute was extremely enjoyable and very worthwhile," she said.
"I made so many friends from the course, and it's thanks to the staff who gave me the chance to develop my career aspirations as a designer."
The Institute's annual graduation ceremony acknowledged the academic achievements of its students over the previous year.
Awards were presented to students in a number of areas including subjects at degree, foundation degree and HND level. Highlights included the presentation of special individual awards to students who had made an outstanding contribution or achievement during the year.
Addressing the ceremony, director Seamus Murphy said that the Institute, which is based in Londonderry, was committed to meeting the lifelong learning needs of the community, and commended the achievements of students who were receiving awards.
"North West Institute is about providing quality education and training for all, and prides itself on offering those programmes which address the needs of our community," he said.
" I warmly congratulate all winners at today's ceremony," he added.
Further Information
Publisher: BELFAST TELEGRAPH
Ref: BT/0949
Published Date: 21-Dec-04
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