Some Lisnaskea parents are against sending their children to the amalgamated Devenish College
Devenish College is a ‘last resort’.
That’s the view of some Lisnaskea parents whose children have been forced to relocate from Lisnaskea High School after its closure at the end of June.
Sharon Clarke told the Herald she hopes her 4th year daughter, Kirsty will gain a place at the Erne Integrated College, and not the new amalgamated school at Devenish College.
“I have heard so many bad reports, so I’m not sending her to Devenish”, she stated.
According to Sharon at least 12 pupils from Lisnaskea are currently trying to transfer to the Integrated, which she views as the best option.
“I know for a fact there’s at least 12 trying to get in. Mr Rees is away on holiday and we will not know until the end of the week. If that does not work out, Devenish would definitely be the last resort and a lot of parents feel the same way.”
Sharon also raised concerns about the bus situation and the extra cost associated with uniform.
“I know for a fact the buses to Enniskillen are chockablock and that pupils are actually having to stand. There’s also the uniform, which is just another expense for parents.”
Sharon’s concerns are shared by Kim Foster, whose daughter, Emma was also a 4th year pupil at Lisnaskea.
“I can do my best not to send my child to Devenish, but I may be left with no other option. Some of us have considered home schooling, we don’t know what’s going to happen.”
“She is hoping to go to the Integrated, but we have been told she may have to repeat 4th year there. She’s not pleased about that, but she is willing to do it to get a place at the school.”
And, the process has taken its toll.
“I can see the pressure on Emma. Last week, she broke down in tears and said: ‘Mummy I’m so scared about going to Devenish’.
“She’s determined not to go to Devenish, and that leaves me the only option of home schooling, and I don’t think I am capable of that.”
Phyllis Beacom’s daughter, Lisa is also in 4th year: “All is for certain she will not be going to Devenish College.”
She went on: “It has been the worse summer holidays ever, with all the worry of what will happen. If Lisnaskea High School was to open in the morning, she would be the first child there.
“She really enjoyed her time there, as did the other children as well. It had a real happy environment and atmosphere to be in. The children put a real fight up for the school. Its just a pity they weren’t listened to.”
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