Half a century of serving children from Downpatrick

Half a century of serving children from Downpatrick

15 October 2025

ST Colmcille’s Primary School in Downpatrick has marked its 50th anniversary with a week of celebrations.

Founded in 1975, the school was established to serve families affected by hardship and displacement during the Troubles, and to meet the needs of a growing population in the town.

The festivities began on Monday, October 6, with a special mass to honour the role the school has played in the community over the past 50 years. 

On Tuesday, the school looked forward to the future, burying a time capsule filled with information encapsulating the school’s rich heritage and vibrant community spirit.

The pupils became a part of history by leaving posters, pictures, poetry and letters to the future for pupils to find in 2075.

On day three, the school community came together for a day packed with class parties, exciting games, delicious treats and bouncy castles.

On Thursday, each class took part in a spelling bee and mental maths competition. This was an opportunity for pupils to showcase their skills, boost their confidence, and have a fun-filled day of learning and camaraderie, while promoting a healthy spirit of competition.

Day five was kick-started with an assembly by P3 pupils, who took the school on a journey through its history and conducted interviews with principal, Mr Stephen Austin and longest-serving staff member, Ms Michelle Hanna.

The assembly ended on a high note with an original song composed and performed by P3 to mark the school’s 50th year. 

To conclude the week, the school held a gala celebration at the Burrendale Hotel, Newcastle, on Friday evening. 

Guests included Noreen Mehan, chair of the board of governors, Jack Manley, vice-chair, current and former staff, dedicated volunteers and PTFA representatives.

The special guest was Philip Campbell, chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down Council and a former pupil of the school.

Mr Austin gave a heartfelt speech, thanking the many staff and volunteers who have contributed to the school’s success over the years and made a positive impact on the lives of pupils.

“From the beginning, St Colmcille’s was more than bricks and mortar – it became a cornerstone of the parish, a place where families came together to learn, laugh and grow,” Mr Austin said. 

“Led by the outstanding Mr Jim Cahalane, and original staff members Patricia Collins, Maureen Quinn, Bernice McGrady and Donal Flanagan, the school quickly built a reputation for excellence and care.

“Sadly, Jim and Patricia are no longer with us.

“I’ll never forget Jim calling me on my third day in post. He wished me all the luck in the world and said ‘you’ll love every minute’. He hasn’t far wrong.”

Mr Austin also spoke about the school’s mission over the past five decades.

“From day one, the mission was clear: to nurture children not just in knowledge and skills, but in faith, love and community,” he said. 

“Today, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us – the dedicated staff and governors, the supportive families and the faithful parish community – all of whom helped 

shape the heart and soul of this school.

“I see the fruits of their labour every day, in the laughter and kindness of our children, in the care and dedication of our staff – many of whom are former pupils, and in the spirit of togetherness that fills our classrooms and corridors.

“St Colmcille’s is more than a school – it is a family, a sanctuary and a place where God’s love is at the centre of all we do.”

Mr Austin paid tribute to the school’s 50th anniversary celebration committee who helped to plan the gala event over the past six months – Sean McReynolds, Michelle Corrigan, Andrea McMenamin, Daniel Lyttle, Gemma Vaughan, Christine Rooney, Rosie Cunliffe and Marianne Dempsey. 

He also thanked assistants Laura Neeson, Melissa Henderson, Trini Oakes and Denise Hunter, as well as Brian Tweedie for their help.

Mr Austin’s speech was followed by a moment of grace led by former school chaplain, Father Brendan Mulhall, in which he gave thanks to 50 years of St Colmcille’s and asked God’s blessing for the future.