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O’Dowd approves closure of Aghavilly Primary School and Keady Primary School

Education Minister, John O’Dowd, has approved Development Proposals to close both Keady Primary School and Aghavilly Primary School in Co Armagh.
~ Friday, 6 January 2012

Commenting on the decision, Mr O’Dowd said: “Since opening in 1898 and 1971 respectively, both Aghavilly Primary School and Keady Primary School have provided an excellent education to children from their local communities. In recent years, however, both schools have suffered from declining enrolments with only 10 children enrolled for 2011/12 in Aghavilly and only 16 enrolled for 2011/12 in Keady.

“I have therefore decided to close the schools as I am confident that the children’s educational needs can now be best met at alternative schools within the area.

“I am sure that all those involved, including parents and school staff, will work hard to ensure a smooth transition for the children to their new school and I wish them all the best in the future. I would also like to pay tribute to all those connected with both Aghavilly Primary School and Keady Primary School who over many years have shown their commitment and dedication to the schools and their pupils.”

Notes to editors:

  1. On 5 September 2011, the Southern Education and Library Board (SELB) published Development Proposal No. 230, which proposed Aghavilly Primary School will close on 31 August 2012, or as soon as possible thereafter.
  2. On the same date the SELB also published Development Proposal No. 266, which proposed Keady Primary School will close on 31 August 2012, or as soon as possible thereafter.
  3. Watch video from the Department of Education on our YouTube channel.
  4. Media queries, contact the Department of Education’s Communications Team on Tel No: 028 9127 9701. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440.