Chapter Chat: IT role at Royal Black headquarters just the job for ex-teacher Ian
A new member of staff has been welcomed to the team at the Royal Black Institution’s headquarters in Loughgall, Co Armagh.
Ian Patterson has taken up the post of IT and operations administrator, with responsibility for maintaining the database, addressing technical issues, and ensuring that members can access and use the system as easily as possible.
Mr Patterson comes from a teaching background, having started off in 1994 with temporary spells at Brownlow College and Balmoral High School after studying at Stranmillis University College, before taking up a permanent position as a maths teacher at Belfast Boys’ Model school in 1997, and going on to gain a Master of Science Degree in computer-based learning from Queen’s University in 2002.
He said: “Over time, I developed a strong interest in Information and Communication Technology and played a key role in driving the development of ICT within the school.”
Mr Patterson remained at the Boys’ Model for 28 years, during which time he was appointed head of ICT, a role which meant he oversaw the growth of the department to a team of six.
A move to a new school building came in 2010 and, afterwards, he became head of Learning Technology.
He said: “This allowed me to focus on developing the school’s ICT infrastructure, leading staff training programmes, and driving forward whole-school digital improvement, while a new head of ICT concentrated on teaching and learning.”
In his role with the Royal Black, he draws on his teaching experience “to support members who may lack confidence in using digital systems”.
“By working patiently and clearly, I help individuals build their skills and become more comfortable with technology,” he said.
As a member of the loyal orders, including the Royal Black, he believes his knowledge of the institution has enabled him to “transition smoothly into this role and contribute effectively from the outset”.
He enjoys helping members build their confidence in using technology and seeing the difference it makes for them, particularly those “who might not be that comfortable with computers at first”.
He said: “I also enjoy the problem-solving side of the job. Whether it’s fixing an issue, improving the database, or finding a simpler way of doing something, I like being able to make things run more smoothly for everyone involved.
“My teaching background comes into play a lot as well. I enjoy putting together training materials and explaining things in a clear, straightforward way so that people don’t feel overwhelmed.
“Overall, it’s the mix of helping people, solving problems, and improving how things work within the Royal Black Institution that I find most enjoyable.”
Mr Patterson said no two days are the same, each bringing its own challenges, with a significant part of the role being supporting members of the institution from the headquarters building.
Training is a key focus of his work, in which he places a strong emphasis on developing and improving training materials to support users at all levels.
He said: “In addition, I will be introducing structured training sessions in the autumn, designed to upskill new users and provide refresher courses for existing members.”
The development of step-by-step video clips will play a key role in enhancing training across the organisation.
Mr Patterson is confident these resources will provide flexible and accessible learning opportunities for members, “allowing them to engage with training in a way that suits their individual needs and confidence levels”.
He said the clips will show the database in action through clear, easy-to-follow demonstrations, with each video guiding users through specific tasks step by step, helping them understand processes in a practical and visual way.
“By providing clear, consistent, and accessible training materials, these videos will reduce the need for repeated one-to-one support and ensure that all users can use the system effectively and with confidence,” he said.
Outside of work, Mr Patterson is a long-standing member of the Ballylesson Old Boys’ Flute Band, where he serves as conductor and secretary.
He is also secretary of the Poundbridge and District Community Association, which supports a wide range of initiatives across the Ballylesson and Drumbo areas.
With a keen interest in classic cars, particularly classic Minis, he is the proud owner of a Cooper Sport, which he enjoys maintaining and driving.
He played in goal for Ballynahinch Hockey Club until his retirement and now enjoys playing darts as part of a local team.
He said: “I continue to enjoy farming on my own land during the summer months. This provides a welcome change of pace and allows me to stay connected to the outdoors, something I have always valued.”