Historic milestone for Maine Integrated Primary School as first permanent vice-principal is appointed

MAINE Integrated Primary School in Randalstown is celebrating a landmark moment in its 23-year history with the appointment of its first ever permanent Vice-Principal - a significant step forward for a school built on determination, vision, and community spirit.

The school, which opened its doors in 2003 with just 16 pupils, was founded by a passionate group of parents and grandparents who believed that the children of Randalstown deserved access to integrated education.

Their dedication laid the foundations for what has become a thriving, inclusive learning community that proudly reflects the diversity and shared future ethos at the heart of integrated schooling.

From its earliest days, Maine Integrated has embodied resilience and ambition.

One of the school’s original pioneers, its very first teacher Miss Harpur - now Mrs McCann - continues to serve the school community today as Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator.

Her continued presence is a hallmark of the stability, continuity, and deep-rooted commitment that have shaped the school’s journey.

The appointment of a permanent Vice-Principal marks a new chapter for Maine Integrated.

It reflects both the school’s ongoing growth and its strong reputation within the local community.

The new Vice-Principal, Martin Hurst, joined the school as class teacher in 2021 following a five-year Deputy Headship in London and knew Maine was the school for him,

“Immediately, I knew this was the school for me.

“Maine IPS is a special place with very special pupils. One of the stand-out moments for me in my time at Maine was when we reviewed our school’s core values in 2024. Every single class in the school voted for ‘uniqueness’ to be one of our school’s values.

“This told me that our pupils know that it’s OK to be different, it’s OK to be yourself and Maine is the place for everyone. I am so delighted to be the school’s first Vice-Principal, and I am excited to work with our pupils, families and wonderful staff team to continue on our school’s journey. We are unstoppable!”

Parents, staff, and pupils have welcomed the news enthusiastically, recognising the significance of this milestone.

Principal Edel Woodin commented, “I recall in my interview for the post at Maine IPS, that I stated my vision for our school was to be a thriving one-form entry school with a Vice-Principal as part of the Senior Leadership Team.

“I am so, so proud that we have achieved those milestones. I now need to think of a brand-new vision for the next few years!”

As Maine Integrated Primary School looks to the future, this new leadership appointment stands as both a celebration and a commitment: a celebration of the hard work and vision that brought the school into being, and a commitment to continued excellence, inclusion, and opportunity for every child in Randalstown.