Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane has announced that Kindle Integrated Primary School, Ballykinler will close on 31 August 2008.
Commenting on the decision, Ms Ruane said: “Kindle Integrated Primary School has served the Ballykinler community for many years and I recognise this is a sad occasion for all involved.
“Unfortunately, the continued decline in enrolments at the school had resulted in a total enrolment of 31 in 2007/8, only four of which were Year 1 pupils. The South-Eastern Education and Library Board therefore considered that the school’s position was no longer sustainable.
“I do fully appreciate and empathise with the concerns expressed by parents and local representatives in the two month objection period which followed publication of the development proposal. However I understand that the majority of parents, including service parents, have taken the decision to enrol their children in alternative primary schools and in the circumstances I have decided to agree to the closure of this school.
“I would pay tribute to the teachers at Kindle who over the years have provided a dedicated and professional educational service for all children who have come through the school."
Notes to Editors:
- The South Eastern Education and Library Board (SEELB) published Development Proposal No 206 on 29 April 2008 to the effect that Kindle Integrated Primary School should close with effect from 31 August 2008, or as soon as possible thereafter.
- Kindle is a co-educational controlled integrated primary school located on a site in Ballykinler village which is situated approximately four miles from Clough, 8 miles from Downpatrick and 9 miles from Newcastle.
- Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9755. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
