Another year of outstanding talent and creativity at the 43rd Annual Schools’ Arts Competition Awards Gala

June 19, 2026

On Thursday 18th June, ISLAND Arts Centre hosted the Gala Awards ceremony to celebrate winners from this year’s Annual Schools’ Arts Competition and it was yet another showcase of the exceptional artistic flair that exists across schools in the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area.

The ceremony recognised the achievements of students in a range of categories, including Visual Art, Poetry, Short Story, Musical Performance and Drama. Entries were welcomed from Primary 3 up to Year 12 from all schools and the quality of submissions to this year’s competition was of an extremely high standard.

Deputy Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Alderman Aaron McIntyre welcomed pupils, teachers, parents and guardians to Thursday’s event. Alderman McIntyre is no stranger to the Arts and said “this is a most inspiring competition to mark the start of my new term as Deputy Mayor and I am truly blown away by the astounding talent of the young people in our Council area. It’s fantastic to see this event in it’s 43rd year and I sincerely hope that it continues to grow with the committed encouragement of all schools.”

The Gala Awards Ceremony was also attended by the newly elected Chair of Communities and Wellbeing, Councillor Sharon Lowry who said “I am thrilled to be here today at ISLAND Arts Centre to celebrate the Schools’ Arts Competition. It is such an important staple of our Arts Education programme that we are delighted to be able to offer local schools year on year. It’s clear to see from the level of talent across various artforms, how important it is that we continue to support the Arts amongst our young people.”

The Gala Awards Ceremony saw a sprinkle of enchantment provided by host, magician Caolan McBride and the entertainment didn’t stop there with performances by local pupils including Panflute, Poetry and Song.

Following the awards, guests enjoyed refreshments and explored a special exhibition showcasing the winning Visual Art, Poetry, and Short Story entries. This exhibition remains open to the public in the Community Arts Walkway at ISLAND Arts Centre until Thursday, 23rd July. It’s a fantastic opportunity for everyone to appreciate the artistic achievements of these talented young artists first-hand.