Castle High School to close

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has approved a Development Proposal to allow for the closure of Castle High School.

The Minister said: “I have considered the Development Proposal very carefully and have decided that closure is the only sensible way forward. Only 54 pupils remain in the school which has capacity for 550.

“I consider that the needs of the pupils will be better met in a bigger school where they will have opportunities to enhance their educational and social learning experiences.

“I wish to thank the teachers and parents for the work they have done for the pupils of Castle High School over the years in difficult and challenging circumstances and wish the pupils all the best in their new school.”

Numbers at Castle High School have been falling in recent years and only six pupils were admitted in September 2008.

Notes to Editors:

1. Castle High School is a controlled co-educational post-primary school.

2. The Belfast Education and Library Board published, on 20 November 2008 a Development Proposal to allow for the cessation of education provision in Castle High School on 31 August 2009.

3. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office, Telephone: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.