Education Minister approves merger of Strabane schools

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has approved a Development Proposal to allow for the merger of Strabane High School and Strabane Grammar School to provide an 11-18 controlled post-primary school.

Speaking about the merger of Strabane High School and Strabane Grammar School, the Minister said “I want to acknowledge the work of both schools, their Boards of Governors and the Western Education and Library Board in bringing the merger proposal forward. With the support of staff, parents and the community the merged school should meet the educational needs and interests of children in the Strabane area. ”

The approval of the merger will allow the Western Education and Library Board and the respective Boards of Governors to plan for the next steps to create a merged school which would guarantee all pupils access to a range of academic and applied courses designed to meet all their needs.

A replacement school for Strabane Grammar School was announced in 2004 and was put on hold earlier this year following an exercise to review capital schemes then in planning. Caitríona Ruane commented: “The Department of Education will be working with the Western Education and Library Board and the schools involved as the merger work proceeds to assess capital requirements.”

The Minister added: “ I recognise that a considerable amount of work will now need to be undertaken by all involved to prepare plans for a successful school which meets the needs of the community in the area. I wish everyone involved success in the work as it moves forward.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The Western Education and Library Board published Development Proposal No 18 in October 2006 for the merger of Strabane High School with Strabane Grammar School with effect from September 2007, or as soon as possible thereafter. The name of the new school will be agreed by the interim Board of Governors.
2. Strabane High School is an 11-16 secondary (non-grammar) school catering for boys and girls. The September 2007 enrolment was 271.
3. Strabane Grammar School is an 11-18 school catering for boys and girls. The September 2007 enrolment was 398 including 110 post-16 pupils.
4. The approval of the development proposal confirms that detailed planning work for a successful merger can proceed. The plans will be the subject to further consideration between the WELB, the schools and the Department of Education.
5. Media queries, contact the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9701. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07669 715 440 and your call will be returned.