Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane has turned down a Development Proposal for Suffolk Primary School to acquire controlled integrated status.
Explaining the reasons for her decision Ms Ruane said: “I have listened very carefully to the arguments in favour of the transformation proposal. As part of my considerations, I sought and have had a useful meeting with representatives from the Suffolk Community Forum to fully understand the issues in the area. I recognise that Suffolk is an area which has experienced significant community tensions in the past and I fully commend the work done by the Suffolk and Lenadoon Interface Group and the Stewartstown Road Regeneration Project to bring stability to the area and foster cross-community initiatives.
“However, my first priority is the education of the children and taking all these views into account, I am not convinced that the school would be able to achieve sufficient enrolments to ensure a viable and successful transformation. Each Development Proposal is carefully considered with a focus on the educational experiences for the children. While enrolments at the school have been falling in recent years, the Principal and teachers have continued to provide a professional and dedicated educational service to the children.”
Notes to Editors:
- • The Belfast Education and Library Board (BELB) published Development Proposal No 185 on 21 February 2008 to transform Suffolk Primary School to controlled integrated status with effect from 31 August 2008 or as soon as possible thereafter.
- • Suffolk Primary School is a co-educational controlled primary school and currently has 40 pupils.
- • Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9755. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
