Galgorm Collection supports digital learning at Kells and Connor Primary School

Galgorm Collection has donated funds to Kells and Connor Primary School to support the purchase of new iPads. Some of the pupils are pictured alongside Principal, Mr Finlay, Senior Teacher and ICT Lead, Mrs Richmond and Victoria Brown, Director of Marketing at Galgorm Collection. 

Hospitality group Galgorm Collection has donated £1,000 to Kells and Connor Primary School, located just outside Ballymena, to support the purchase of new iPads for pupils, helping to strengthen digital learning in the classroom.

Kells and Connor Primary School serves more than 200 pupils from the surrounding rural area, and the funding will enable the school to invest in up-to-date technology to complement traditional teaching methods.

Colin Johnston, CEO of Galgorm Collection, said:

“We are delighted to provide a donation to Kells and Connor Primary School for the purchase of new iPads.

“Access to quality, up-to-date technology is vital for children to learn digital skills from a young age and at Galgorm, we understand how much businesses rely on digital technology, so it is fantastic that children have the opportunity to learn and develop these skills early.”

Digital learning plays an increasingly important role within Northern Ireland primary schools, alongside established classroom approaches.

Research carried out by Stranmillis University College has found that young children’s maths, English and communication skills improve when iPads are used regularly in school settings.

The donation was welcomed by Principal Simon Finlay, who highlighted the direct impact on pupils and staff. He said:

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Galgorm Collection for its kind donation of £1,000 and continued support of our school. With this funding, we will be able to purchase new iPads which will be hugely beneficial to support learning in the classroom.

“With the current budget restraints faced by schools across the country, we are relying more and more on the generosity of local companies such as Galgorm Collection to help us provide essential learning tools.

“Using iPads in the classroom has been proven to boost children’s literacy, numeracy, and communication skills and makes learning more engaging and fun through interactive apps.

“We find that incorporating them into our daily learning schedule is helping to build essential digital skills, which is especially helpful to children with special needs or those who struggle with traditional teaching methods. The use of iPads has helped our young children to be more motivated and engaged in class.”

Beyond this donation, Galgorm Collection said it remains committed to supporting local communities through charitable giving, educational partnerships, and by welcoming local schools and colleges to visit its premises.

The company is a major local employer and has significantly expanded its hospitality operations and workforce over the past decade.

As Galgorm Collection continues to grow, the company says its focus on community support and local economic impact remains a central part of its approach.