On 11th November 2020 Education Minister Peter Weir visited  students  who have taken part in the ASPIRE programme. This THRiVE funded project was developed by Abbey Community College in partnership with the Monkstown Boxing Club. ASPIRE offers flexible learning and gives pupils access to a bespoke education plan enabling them to progress and succeed in sustained education or employment.

The Minister said: “I want to commend Monkstown Boxing Club for the work they are doing to provide children and young people, who may otherwise not get the opportunity, to fulfil their full potential in an educational setting that is best suited to their needs.

“Without the vital interventions by the club along with Abbey Community College, the young people taking part may not achieve sufficient GCSE qualifications, to enable them to progress to further education, training and employment.

“I am also personally encouraged that the initiative also clearly improves the general mental health and wellbeing of the students whilst providing them with direction and a focus.”