O’Dowd helps with brickwork at a £2.45million extension at The Armstrong Primary School, Armagh

Education Minister John O’Dowd viewed work at a £2.45million extension and refurbishment works at The Armstrong Primary School in Armagh.

The project which is proceeding under the School Enhancement Programme will involve the refurbishment and extension of the original school and provide resource areas, classroom stores and a multi-purpose room as well as new heating, lighting and ancillary works.

Speaking as he visited the school, John O’ Dowd said:

“The School Enhancement Programme is one of the programmes we use to enhance the school’s estate. The new facilities here at The Armstrong will benefit the entire school community and improve the learning environment and ensure that this school is well equipped to deliver the curriculum to the existing pupils and future generations.”

The School Enhancement Programme (SEP) was introduced in 2013 for projects up to £4million. The programme takes forward 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. Since the launch of the School Enhancement Programme, 34 projects have commenced, representing investment of £80million. In addition, I have now announced a further £35million investment to enable another 12 projects to proceed to construction.

“I thank everyone involved with this project for their hard-work and commitment in taking the project forward to completion. I wish everyone well for the future.”

Notes to editors: 

1. Armstrong Primary School has an enrolment of 518.

2. Lowry Construction is carrying out the construction work which is due to be completed by the end of 2016.

3. 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.

4. See photos from the Department of Education in our flickr collection.

5. Media enquiries to the Department of Education’s Communications Team on Tel: 028 9127 9268. Out of office hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.

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