A Caledon Primary school that is proposed to close are not giving up without a fight and they are urging everyone – whether connected to the school or not – to help protect their future.
The Education Authority earmarked St Joseph’s Primary School for closure after it had been judged as being “unsustainable”.
As such, it is intended that the school would close at the end of the summer term – August 31 – in 2027, or “as soon as possible thereafter”.
Related: ‘Save our school’: Public urged to share their objections to planned closure of Caledon primary
A consultation exercise is now underway after an actual development proposal was published and the public are being asked to take part in that consultation to help secure the school’s future.
On Saturday, March 21 the school community came out in force for a ‘Walk for St. Joseph’s’ to raise awareness for their plea.
They were joined by representatives of several local community groups including Caledon Regeneration Partnership, Caledon Estate Company, Caledon Community Centre and Caledon Rovers FC.
Added a representative for the school: “The committee, members and players of Aghaloo O’Neills GFC came out in huge numbers, we are grateful for your encouragement during the course of our campaign.
“We extend a special thank you to our friends from Churchill P.S., Caledon Playgroup and The Woolstore Daycare, together we have educated and cared for generations of children in Caledon, we are determined that we will continue to do so for future generations.
“It was heartening to see the Priests, Ministers and representatives from the local churches walk with us. Our community is united in our opposition to the proposed closure of St. Joseph’s.
“Finally, we wish to thank each and every person who took the time to walk with us and pledge your support for our school. We are proud to be part of this community.”
And now that they have shown their commitment to protecting their school with their feet, they are urging the public to do their bit by putting pen to paper.
You can submit your objection to the proposals by sending a letter to The Area Planning Policy Team, Department of Education, Rathgael House, Balloo House, Bangor, Co. Down, BT19 7PR or email: dps@education-ni.gov.uk.
