O’Dowd visits site of £3.9million investment at Millington Primary School

Education Minister John O’Dowd today visited Millington Primary School, Portadown to see the £3.9million investment being delivered through the School Enhancement Programme.

During the visit the Minister met with staff and pupils of the school and also carried out a sod cutting to mark the occasion.

The Minister said:

“It is a pleasure to be here today to officially mark commencement of work at Millington Primary School. The £3.9million at the school will address the immediate and pressing accommodation issues by providing a new 12 classroom extension as well as refurbishing the existing accommodation. The new accommodation will provide an improved environment for both the staff and pupils which will have a positive impact for many years to come.

“Ongoing investment in our schools estate is essential if we are to continue to provide a quality education. The School Enhancement Programme is an important way of providing much needed work to our schools estate and I am confident that this investment will help in the drive to improve educational standards.”

The School Enhancement Programme (SEP) was announced in 2013 for projects up to £4million.  The programme is targeted to meet the urgent needs of schools through smaller scale works, where a new build is not deemed deliverable.

Concluding the Minister said:

“I always enjoy visiting schools and meeting with staff and pupils. It is particularly enjoyable when I am highlighting investment that not only has an impact on the lives of those connected with the school but also provides a boost to the local construction industry. 

“I am delighted that I could be here today to celebrate this occasion with them and I wish everyone connected with school well for the future.”

Notes to editors: 

1. The Department of Education’s ‘Education Works’ campaign promotes the value of education.  This year’s campaign aims to ensure that parents have information on schooling and that they are aware of the steps they can take to ‘Get Involved’ and support their teenager in achieving good outcomes at school.  Watch out for the ads on television, radio and outdoor locations. The campaign highlights the vital role families can play in helping children do well at school and improve their life chances. Visit nidirect - Education Works for more information or watch the TV ad on the Department’s YouTube channel.
2. See photos from the Department of Education in our Flickr collection.
3. Media enquiries to the Department of Education’s Communications Team on Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.

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