The decision was taken by Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, following a proposal by South Eastern Education and Library Board.
The Minister said: “Donaghadee High School has provided an important service to the community of Donaghadee and wider afield, but in recent years there has been a fall in numbers attending. Unfortunately the school is no longer sustainable and I must consider the best interests of the pupils currently enrolled. Closing a school is never an easy decision to take but the needs of the pupils cannot be met in a school in decline.
“The Development Proposal also provides that no pupils would be admitted into Year 8 from September. In view of the lateness of this decision the SEELB has asked for the Development Proposal to be modified to allow for the retention of Year 8 pupils already admitted. I fully endorse this action as I recognise the anxiety currently facing pupils and parents who are anticipating that places in alternative post-primary schools will have to be secured this term”.
The Minister said that there is no shortage of places for pupils transferring to post-primary education in the North Down area and her decision was based purely in the interests of Year 8 pupils and their parents to avoid disruption to their first year of post-primary education.
Notes to Editors:
- Donaghadee High School is a controlled post-primary school.
- The South Eastern Education and Library Board (SEELB) published Development Proposal No 200 on 29 April 2008 to the effect that Donaghadee High School should close with effect from 31 August 2009 or as soon as possible thereafter.
- 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 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.
