Celebrations to mark end of St Joseph’s PS in Ballycruttle

Celebrations to mark end of St Joseph’s PS in Ballycruttle

21 June 2023

A CELEBRATION was held at the weekend to mark almost 200 years of education at St Joseph’s Primary School in Ballycruttle.

Teachers, pupils and parents past and present gathered on Saturday afternoon to celebrate a school which has played an important role at the heart of the Ballycruttle community, but which is scheduled to close at the end of August.

There has been a school serving the community of Ballee and Ballycruttle since 1840. Initially it was situated beside St Joseph’s Church, but was relocated to its current site in 1936.

It has been extended and mobile classrooms added over the years which are still very much part of the school today.

Generations of the same families have attended the school down the years.

The current acting principal is Mrs Helen Turley, whose mother, Mrs Martha Hannity, was principal for 16 years.

She said: “Ballycruttle has always been a small school, as many rural schools are, and with a small school comes a great sense of community, with multi-generations attending the school across the nearly 200 years of its existence.

“Over the years we have had great children, supportive parents and a close-knit staff. Many great friendships have been formed.

She continued: “There is a great sense of sadness surrounding the school closure, but it is important to celebrate the success and legacy Saint Joseph’s Primary School will leave behind. 

“We are so proud of all the children past and present who have passed through our doors. We are proud of their academic achievements and how they have left our school well-rounded, confident and friendly individuals.

“Helping the children along the way have been their families. They have supported our school community, which they have been a huge part of endlessly.”

Mrs Turley also paid tribute to the many people who supported and served the school in so many ways throughout its history.

“Over the years until present day we have also has a great staff team,” she remarked.  “To work in a small school takes a dedication shown by our staff who have always gone above and beyond to put the children at the heart of our school.

“Finally, there are many people behind the scenes that help to run a school. We are thankful to have had the continued support of the Board of Governors across the years.  We thank Fr Paul Alexander and Deacon Jackie Breen for their pastoral care and hard work also.”

Mrs Turley added: “St Joseph’s Ballycruttle has been wonderful, and it means so much to so many. We will forever pride ourselves on being a small school with a big heart.”

Among the former staff members present was Mr James Murphy, who was principal for ten years, from 1990 to 2000.

Mr Murphy’s connection with the school spans four generations. His father-in-law and wife were both pupils, as were his children and grandchildren.

Mr Murphy spoke of his pride in the “wonderful” academic achievements by the pupils, sporting successes and special occasions, such as Christmas concerts.

He also referred to the many friendships he made and also paid tribute to former staff members.

Mr Murphy added: “I can honestly say that my time in Ballycruttle was the most enjoyable in my teaching career.”