Decision on nursery unit for Braniel Primary School

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has turned down a development proposal for a change in the pattern of attendance at Braniel Primary School Nursery Unit.

The nursery unit currently provides 78 places through two part-time classes and one full-time class. The proposal was to provide 52 full-time places for pre-school pupils in the Lower Braniel area. Research shows that children who have a high-quality pre-school experience are better prepared for primary school, are more sociable and independent and learn more quickly than those who have not.

Explaining the reasons for her decision, Ms Ruane commented: “My views on the value of pre-school provision for young children are well-known. Each development proposal, however, must be carefully considered on the basis of all the information pertinent to the individual case.

“In this case a reduction in the number of places available would have had a significant impact on provision in the Braniel and surrounding area. It is my Department’s aim to provide one year’s pre-school education for every child in their pre-school year whose parents wish it.”

Notes to editors:

1. Braniel Primary School is a controlled, co-educational primary school located in the Lower Braniel area. The nursery department, which is an integral part of the primary school, was opened in 1976.
2. On 26 January 2010, the South Eastern Education and Library Board (SEELB) published Development Proposal No 213 proposing that Braniel Primary School Nursery Unit should alter its pattern of attendance from 78 places to 52 full-time places with effect from 31 August 2011, or as soon as possible thereafter.
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