Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has approved a development proposal to amalgamate St Patrick’s Boys’ Primary School and the Convent of Mercy Primary School, Downpatrick.
Explaining the reasons for her decision, the Minister commented: “The amalgamation of St Patrick’s Boys’ Primary School and Convent of Mercy Primary School, Downpatrick will create a sustainable, co-educational local primary school and Irish-medium Unit.
“I believe that these schools are very well placed to achieve a successful amalgamation and will provide a broad, balanced curriculum and a wide range of extra-curricular activities for their pupils. In addition, the existing Irish-medium unit will continue to thrive as demand from parents in Downpatrick grows.
“I would like to take this opportunity to wish the staff and pupils every success in the future.”
Notes to editors:
- On 16 March 2010 the South Eastern Education and Library Board (SEELB) published Development Proposal (DP) Number 215 which proposed the amalgamation of St Patrick’s Boys’ Primary School and the Convent of Mercy Primary School with effect from 1 September 2011 or as soon as possible thereafter. The statutory two month objection period ended on 16 May 2010.
- The schools are currently separate single-sex maintained primary schools although St Patrick’s has a co-educational Irish-medium Unit. The schools will initially amalgamate on the Convent of Mercy site.
- 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.
