5 Mar 2026
Celebrating One of Northern Ireland's Most Treasured Educational Institutions
Mark Logan, former Vice-Chair of the International Students All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) at UK Parliament, recently paid a visit to Rockport School, one of Northern Ireland's most distinguished educational institutions.
Logan met with Mr Vance, Headmaster, and his dedicated team, gaining a first-hand insight into the school's ethos, ambitions and the remarkable community it has built. Mr Vance, who brings decades of experience in education - having held a leadership role at the prestigious Regent House School - has now been at the front line of Rockport for almost 20 years, a tenure that has seen the school go from strength to strength.
The visit left a clear impression on Logan, who was struck not only by the school's present-day dynamism but also by the rich tapestry of its history. Among the notable threads of that history is the school's connection to Snow Patrol, with band members having been educated at Rockport, alongside Dr Robb and other distinguished alumni.
Logan was particularly captivated by the story of Robin Masefield, a local historian with deep ties to the school, who dedicated considerable scholarly effort to researching the life and times of Sir Robert Hart - a figure of significant historical importance.
Commenting on his visit, Logan said: "What a gem this is for the future of Northern Ireland. Building on a past that has seen Snow Patrol band members educated here, Dr Robb amongst others, and I was particularly fascinated to learn more about Robin Masefield, who was a local historian connected to the school and researched the life and times of Robert Hart."
About Rockport School
Founded in 1906 by Geoffrey Bing as a boys' preparatory school, Rockport has a proud and storied history. Today, the school has evolved into a thriving all-through institution, welcoming under 300 pupils from Playgroup to Sixth Form.
That relatively intimate size is one of Rockport's greatest strengths. Smaller class sizes and an exceptional staff-to-pupil ratio create the conditions for every child to be truly known, nurtured and challenged. No pupil is lost in the crowd.
Idyllically situated on the shores of Belfast Lough, Rockport offers something rare - a setting that is as inspiring as the education it delivers. As a proud member of Round Square, the school is guided by strong values and a genuine sense of adventure, connecting its pupils to a global network of like-minded schools that believe education should shape character as much as it sharpens minds.