CRIS (Community Relations In Schools)

Community Relations in Schools (CRIS) supports schools across Northern Ireland in their Shared Education work, with funding provided by the PEACE PLUS programme through the Education Authority. Leveraging decades of experience in peacebuilding and community relations, CRIS assists schools in developing inclusive partnerships that benefit pupils, staff, and the wider community. A key initiative is the 'Buddy Up!' programme, an inter-school system inspired by the Good Friday Agreement. It aims to build friendships across community divides, such as those in the Shankill and Ardoyne areas of Belfast. The programme also provides online resources and videos for KS1 pupils covering topics like identity, feelings, empathy, and diversity. CRIS celebrates its work and milestones through events like its 40th Anniversary Gala and family fun days.