Education Minister approves closure of Drumcree College and establishment of new Key Stage 3 school
Date published:
Education Minister John O'Dowd has approved Development Proposal 428 for the closure of Drumcree College in Portadown and Development Proposal 429 for the opening of a new Key Stage 3 school in the area.
Commenting on his decision Minister O’Dowd said:
“I have carefully considered both proposals put forward to me and I have decided that maintained provision should remain in the locality.
"Over the years Drumcree College has suffered from declining enrolments and uncertainty about its future if any.
“Having considered all the relevant information, I am approving the establishment of a new KS3 school on the site of Drumcree College with effect from 1 September 2016 or as soon as possible thereafter. To enact the above proposal I have also decided to approve the proposal to close the current Drumcree College beginning from September 2016 or as soon as possible thereafter.”
Notes to editors:
- On 19 November 2015 the Education Authority, at the request of the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS), published DP 428 proposing that Drumcree College in Portadown would close beginning from 1 September 2016, or as soon as possible thereafter. This proposal is linked to DP 429 to open a new KS3 school on the site with effect from 1 September 2016 or as soon as possible thereafter. The statutory two-month objection period ended on 19 January 2016.
- Drumcree College is a maintained post-primary school located near Portadown. Its enrolment for 2015/16 was 181 pupils for Years 8–12.
- Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 99 715 440, and your call will be returned.