Derry & Strabane support GEMX celebration honouring students’ work experience achievements

The event was attended by parents, carers and teachers, highlighting strong collaboration between education, industry, and community.

Former Mayor, Councillor Ruairí McHugh presented certificates to all the students and praised the students’ achievements, saying: “You stepped into new environments, took on new challenges, and showed curiosity, determination and courage. You should be immensely proud. You have shown that ability is not defined by limitations, but by potential — and today, we celebrate that potential.”

The programme provided valuable workplace experience, helping students build confidence and skills while also highlighting the opportunity for employers to access an often-untapped labour pool of talented young people with disabilities.

David Loughrey, teacher at Knockavoe School, speaking after last week’s celebration, said: “It is great to see special needs students getting to have the same life experiences as their counterparts from mainstream schools.”

Edyth Dunlop from NI Union of Supported Employment added: “The students were so proud in what they had achieved and so were their parents.”

Mayor McHugh also acknowledged the vital support of parents, carers, and teachers, and thanked local businesses - Seagate, MiM, McColgans, Foyle Port, and Hunters - for their commitment to inclusion and opportunity.

The initiative also highlighted the important role of GEMX in advancing inclusive pathways into manufacturing and engineering across the North West.

Linda McGuinness, Director of the Magee Expansion Plan, recognised GEMX’s contribution in opening doors and showcasing the opportunities available across the region, noting that everyone has a role to play in shaping a stronger and more inclusive future.

The event celebrated the students’ effort, growth, and achievement, and demonstrated what is possible when community, education, and industry work together to create inclusive opportunities for all.