STUNNED

STUNNED

20 March 2013

TEACHERS, parents and governors of a small local primary school have vowed to fight its proposed closure.

St. Patrick’s Primary School, at Burrenreagh near Castlewellan, is the only school in Down District recommended for closure under a major review into all primaries in Northern Ireland.

A meeting was due to take place in the school last night amid a sense of disbelief that a school which has been in existence for over 150 years may have to close its doors.

Headmaster James Hunt said there is a determination to have the closure proposal reversed.

“In a time of continual economic change in which community and family life is so vital in supporting children in the many daily challenges they face, parents appreciate the stability and ambience offered in school life in Burrenreagh,” said Mr Hunt.

Elsewhere the report recommends a series of mergers including between Castlewellan primary and Annsborough integrated primary.

The merger of St. Mary’primary in Saintfield with its close neighbour in Darragh Cross, St. Caolan’s, is another of the proposals.

Reviews have been ordered into the operation of other schools in close proximity including St. Joseph’s, Strangford and St. Malachy’s, Kilclief; St. Mary’s, Dunsford and St. Nicholas’, Ardglass; Sacred Heart, Dundrum and St. Joseph’s, Tyrella.It is likely these schools will be recommended for merger.

The report also recommends the review of St. Joseph’s Primary School, in Killough.

Derryboy and Killyleagh primaries are to be reviewed with the possibility of merger and a proposal from Glasswater primary for links with Killyleagh is to be examined.

The three primaries in Crossgar may develop closer co-operation.

The report also says it is unlikely a new Down High School will include a preparatory department.

• Full coverage on page 12.