Following a number of deaths in disused quarries in Northern Ireland in the past number of years the Department of the Environment, led by the Environment Minister, asked district councils to investigate the number of disused quarries within their districts, assess their high risk features and consider what could be done to prevent further fatalities.

Following a comprehensive review of all aspects of disused quarries and the options available, an educational awareness campaign aimed at teenagers and young adults was considered to be the most appropriate way of highlighting the serious risks involved in swimming in disused quarries and open water and influencing behavioural change.

The Quarry Products Association NI has worked for a number of months with the Departments of Environment and Justice and the Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) to put together an educational awareness campaign. The campaign, “Quarry water is a stone-cold killer. Stay out, stay alive” warns of the dangers of swimming in disused quarries and open water.

The residential was for three days to allow the Year11 Geography pupils to complete their fieldwork for Controlled Assessment. This is 25% of their final GCSE grade. Both Mrs McAleece and Mrs Turkington's classes went and were accompanied by Mr Charles and Mr Bryson. The weather was great and the kids worked really hard.

To view a slection of photographs click the link below

Please click on the link below to view the letter from the Principal, Mr Elder for the attention of all Year 12 Pupils and their Parents/Guardians. 

Click here to view the letter.

Congratulations to Oisin Chambers, Haley Wilson, Chloe Crooks and Sara McLean who where recently presented with their Duke of Edinburgh Silver Awards and Certificates.

Recently Year 10 girls at Magherafelt High School participated in an exciting and innovative programme called 'Girl's on the Ball'.  The programme is being jointly funded by the Women's Department of the Irish Football Association, UEFA and Ulster University.  The programme was delivered by 'Amazing Brains', a community interest company established to support study skills and enterprise education for school pupils.  Magherafelt High has worked closely with 'Amazing Brains' on the delivery of a pupil support study programme in recent years and is delighted for it's pupils to be involved in this project.  The programme will continue with another school based event and a visit to Ulster University.

To view photographs please click on the link below.