Education Minister announces new nursery unit at Drumnamoe Nursery School, Lurgan

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has approved the establishment of an additional nursery unit at Drumnamoe Nursery School, Lurgan.

The unit will provide an additional 26 full-time places for children in their immediate pre-school year. 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.

Ms Ruane highlighted that the decision was made in order to fulfil the objective of providing a year of good quality pre-school education for every child whose parents wishes it. She commented: “Our children deserve the best possible start to their education. Quality pre-school education can help the development of children and improve their social and communication skills. Children who attend Drumnamoe Nursery School will now have the opportunity to benefit from the pre-school education that is their first step on the road to fulfilling their potential."

Notes to editors:

1. Drumnamoe Nursery School is situated on the Levin Road in the Kilwilke Estate, Lurgan. It serves the pre-school population of north Lurgan and the surrounding area of Aghagallon.
2. Currently there are 26 full-time places and 52 part-time places (26 morning and 26 afternoon).
3. On 17 December 2009, the Southern Education and Library Board (SELB) published Development Proposal No 244 proposing the establishment of an additional nursery unit at Drumnamoe Nursery School, with effect from 1 September 2010, or as soon as possible thereafter. However, a modification of the proposal, to change the implementation date to September 2011, was subsequently agreed.
4. 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 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.