Ruane announces new nursery provision in Lurgan

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has approved the establishment of a new nursery class at St Francis’ Primary School, Lurgan.

The unit at St Francis’ Primary School will replace the existing reception class at the school and will provide 26 full-time places for children in their immediate pre-school year.

Commenting on the decision, the Minister said: “I am committed to improving the quality of pre-school education provision for children in the north.  Attendance at nursery school is an enriching experience which helps children build vital interpersonal skills and gives them confidence before they progress into primary school.

“This new unit at St Francis’ Primary School will make a strong contribution to the level of provision in Lurgan, providing an excellent stepping stone for children as they begin their educational journeys.”

Notes to editors:

1. St Francis’ Primary School is a maintained, co-educational primary school located in Lurgan. The school was established in 2001 from the amalgamation of three schools: St Joseph’s Infant School; St Peter’s Boys Primary School; and Sacred Heart Girls’ Primary School.
2. On 17 December 2009, the Southern Education and Library Board (SELB) published Development Proposal No 246 proposing the establishment of an additional nursery unit at St Francis’ Primary School with effect from 1 September 2010, or as soon as possible thereafter.
3. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440, and your call will be returned.