Need for High School places is ‘critical’ claims MLA

(l-r)Ian McConaghy (Dromore High Principal), Peter Weir MLA (Chair of Stormont Education Committee), Linda Allen (Dromore Central PS) and Brenda Hale MLA holding a map of Dromore showing approved residential development new builds for the Dromore area.

She hosted a joint meeting with the new principal of Dromore High School, Mr Ian McConaghy, Mrs Linda Allen, Principal of Dromore Primary School and the new Chair of the Stormont Education Committee, Dr Peter Weir MLA.

Amongst the matters discussed were the recent problems of oversubscription of the High School and the rejection of over 50 applications for the year 2015-2016 and the difficulties facing the future capacity of the new primary school.

Mrs Hale said: “It is very clear that there continues to be a considerable growth in the number of school places needed at both primary and secondary level education within Dromore.

“Both the Minister for Education and the Education Board have consistently stated the need for places in Dromore is not at a critical level, I have to say that I reject that view and it is clear that we need to ensure that both schools have the capacity to meet the growing demand needed by the local community.”

She added: “I will be doing everything possible to ensure that the high standard of education continues within Dromore.”

Mr McConaghy said: “The growth of the school population coupled with unsuitable layout of the existing premises needs to be addressed soon so that the school can continue to grow and develop.”

He added: “Aligned with this is the importance of ensuring the building meets the needs and aspirations of the wider Dromore community.”

Mrs Linda Allen, Principal of Dromore Central Primary School, said: “All parties were anxious to ensure that the project delivers the best possible accommodation and facilities in order to allow the delivery of ‘state of the art’ education aimed at equipping our children, both present and future, to become successful members of a 21st century society.”

She added: “The governors and staff are grateful for the work and support given by our MLA, Mrs Brenda Hale, and Mr Peter Weir and we look forward to continuing to work together to secure the vision of an outstanding, ‘second to none’ school for the generations to come in the Dromore area.”