03/02/2004

Minister announces East Belfast school amalgamation

Education Minister, Jane Kennedy has approved a Development Proposal, from the Belfast Education and Library Board, to amalgamate Sydenham Infants and Strand Primary Schools, in East Belfast.

The Minister said the proposal would enable primary school age children from the East Belfast area to be educated together from Primary 1 through to Primary 7. "Current arrangements involve children attending Sydenham Infants School from Primary 1 to Primary 3 and then transferring to Strand Primary School for the remainder of their primary school education," the Minister said.

“Clearly, this proposal to bring both schools together is in the best interests of the children and staff and I wish everyone associated with this venture every good wish for the future.

“An Economic Appraisal examining the best way in which this amalgamation can be achieved is currently with the Department and a decision on the recommended option will be made shortly.”

The amalgamation will come into operation on 1 September 2005 or at the earliest possible date thereafter.

It is estimated that it will result in a school with a long-term enrolment of around 313 pupils.

(MB)

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