School closure plan 'premature', says board of governors

A proposal to close a primary school in the County Londonderry village of Newbuildings has been branded "premature" by its board of governors.

The Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) submitted a proposal to close St Columba's Primary School to the Education Authority (EA) on Thursday.

The proposal would see the school, which opened in 1955, close on 31 August 2027.

Chair of the school's board of governors Gareth McFadden said the plan was "disappointing" and the board was "absolutely committed to the future of St Columba's".

"We believe there is compelling evidence that closure would be premature and that there are realistic alternatives which deserve proper consideration," McFadden said.

"This school is not simply a set of numbers on a page.

"It is children, families, education, opportunity and community, and we will continue to make that case."

The CCMS said the school would continue to operate as normal until a final decision is made by Stormont's education minister and Department of Education.

"CCMS remains committed to supporting sustainable schools that deliver high-quality teaching and learning, and to ensuring the best possible educational opportunities for children, young people and the wider local community," it said.

A total of 37 pupils currently attend the school, a fall from 64 pupils in the 2015/16 academic year.

Tina Lyons, the school's principal, said the pupils "are happy, supported and thriving in a school where every child is known and valued".

"Our staff will continue to give our pupils the excellent education, care and stability they deserve while this process continues," she said.

The board of governors said it would now consider the "next stage of the process".

Foyle SDLP MP Colum Eastwood said he had been in contact with the EA on behalf of the school, which he said was at the heart of the local community.

"It would be a real shame to see the school close its doors after so many years of providing young people with an excellent education," he said.

"The staff go above and beyond and care deeply about the future of the school and its pupils.

"I know there is a campaign underway to save St Columba's, and it has my full support."

He said the education minister, who has the final say, must "listen to the views of parents, staff and the whole school community and keep St Columba's open".