The Education Minister, Caitriona Ruane, has agreed the amalgamation of St.Joseph’s Primary School in Ahoghill and St.Patrick’s Primary Schools in Aughtercloney with effect from 1st September 2007.
‘St.Joseph’s Primary School and St.Patrick’s Primary School in Parish of Ahoghill to be amalgamated’
The Education Minister, Caitriona Ruane, has agreed the amalgamation of St.Joseph’s Primary School in Ahoghill and St.Patrick’s Primary Schools in Aughtercloney with effect from 1st September 2007.
A development proposal to amalgamate the two schools had been submitted to the Minister by the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools on behalf of the local Trustees. The proposal had been prompted by the continuing low enrolment and deteriorating financial position of both schools.
Over the course of a year, both the Trustees and CCMS engaged in a process of extensive consultation and discussion with the Governors, Principals of both schools and the local community regarding the future viability of the schools. During this period all avenues and options were fully discussed and explored.
It is anticipated that the amalgamation of the schools will enable the combined expertise of both teaching staffs to be fully utilized thereby enhancing the educational provision for all pupils in the Parish.
Furthermore the proposed amalgamation of both schools will ensure the continued presence of Catholic Education within Ahoghill for the foreseeable future.
There are currently 43 children attending Catholic Maintained Schools within Ahoghill and it is hoped that the new school, which will be situated on the current St Joseph’s Primary School site, will be open in September 2007 or as soon as possible thereafter.
‘Ends’
For further information please contact
Paul O’Connor
Communications Officer