Speaking at the ceremony, the Education Minister said: “A new school building always means an exciting time. This new £15million school building will serve the educational interests of all the young people in Downpatrick and the surrounding area.
“This is one of four new school buildings announced in a £45million school build initiative. It is good news for the parents and young people in Downpatrick who will be educated in bright new classrooms, with enhanced learning facilities capable of preparing them for the 21st century challenges facing them as they leave school for the world of work.
“I welcome the approach St Patrick’s post-primary school is taking by working with other schools in the area. The draft RPA Policy Paper on area-based planning was out to consultation in 2008 and is being finalised. It is an important driver in achieving the vision for education since it is about identifying the education needs of children and young people on an area basis and planning to meet those needs. Collaborative working, with a focus on outcomes for pupils rather than on the needs of institutions or buildings, represents the way forward for education.”
St Patrick’s will cost £15million for a new build on the existing site. It is due to open to new and existing enrolments in 2011.
Notes to Editors
- St Patrick’s Grammar School, Downpatrick is a De La Salle school for 11 – 18 year age group and shares its site with De La Salle High School.
- The architect for St Patrick’s Grammar is Samuel Stevenson and Sons and the main contractor is O’Hare and McGovern
- Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
