The school has only 24 children enrolled in the current school year, 2 of them in P1.
Commenting on the proposal, the Minister said that the decision was in the best interests of the pupils. “Small schools can be a vital element in the rural community, but where enrolments have been declining over recent years closure may become the only option.
“In the case of Collone Primary, where there were no objections to this proposal, it is not in the best interests of the children to keep the school open as we need to ensure they have access to the widest educational opportunities.
“Within the wider area, there are a number of neighbouring schools, which will be able to accommodate the children from Collone and meet their educational needs.”
The Southern Education and Library Board will provide transport as required for pupils transferring to other local schools.
Notes to Editors:
- There are seven controlled primary schools within a six mile radius of the school.
- Collone PS is a co-educational controlled primary school located 3.5 miles from Armagh City and 4 miles from Markethill in a mainly rural community.
- The Southern Education and Library Board (SELB) published Development Proposal No 218 on 19 April 2007 to the effect that Collone Primary School should close with effect from 31 August 2008 or as soon as possible thereafter. The statutory 2-month period for objections ended on 19 June 2007 and no objections were received.
- The SELB propose to close the school because of declining enrolments. There are only 2 children in P1 and 24 in total in the school.
- For 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.
