CRIS (Community Relations In Schools)

Community Relations In Schools (CRIS), located at 6, North City Business Centre, Duncairn Gardens, Belfast BT15 2GG, United Kingdom, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting peace, reconciliation, and appreciation for diversity in schools. With a focus on the Buddy Up! program, CRIS works to create a more cohesive and inclusive learning environment for pupils, teachers, and parents.

• Buddy Up!: CRIS's flagship program, Buddy Up! fosters positive relationships and mutual understanding between children from different religious and cultural backgrounds. It achieves this through a peer-mediated approach, where pupils are trained to support and mentor each other in a fun and engaging manner.
• The GRACE Model: This model underpins CRIS's work and stands for Guidance, Respect, Acceptance, Challenge, and Empathy. It provides a framework for promoting positive relationships and addressing sectarianism and racism in schools.

CRIS's office is situated in the North City Business Centre, on Duncairn Gardens, in the Tigers Bay area of Belfast. The closest main road is the Antrim Road (A107). Public transportation is easily accessible, with the nearest bus stops serving routes 1, 2, 3, 6A, and 70. The closest train station, Belfast Central, is approximately a 20-minute walk away. There is a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance available at the business centre.

• Impact: CRIS's Buddy Up! program has demonstrated significant positive impacts on pupils' attitudes, behaviors, and school environment. A study by Queen's University Belfast found that pupils who participated in the program showed reduced prejudice and increased cross-community friendships.
• Whole-school approach: CRIS works with entire schools, involving teachers, pupils, and parents in its programs. This holistic approach ensures that the positive changes made are sustainable and have a lasting impact on the school community.
• Training and resources: CRIS provides comprehensive training and resources to schools to support the implementation of its programs. This includes workshops, lesson plans, and guidance on creating a more inclusive school environment.

• Phone: You can reach CRIS by calling 7921851601.
• Website: For more information about CRIS's work and how to get involved, visit their website at crisni.org.
• Email: To get in touch via email, use the contact form available on their website or send a message to [email protected].
• Social media: Follow CRIS on social media for updates on their work and impact:
  • Facebook: facebook.com/CRISNI
  • Twitter: @CRISNI
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/crisni

Although CRIS has no reviews on Google My Business, their work is highly regarded by educators, parents, and pupils alike. The organization's impact on promoting peace, reconciliation, and understanding in Northern Irish schools has been recognized and celebrated by various educational and community organizations.

In conclusion, Community Relations In Schools offers a vital service to schools in Northern Ireland, helping to create more cohesive and inclusive learning environments. Their Buddy Up! program and GRACE model have been proven to make a significant difference in the lives of pupils, teachers, and parents. With a commitment to a whole-school approach and comprehensive training and resources, CRIS is a valuable asset to the community.