St Mary’s Primary School has secured funding for a major extension project that will include several new classrooms and a new library. 

This will mean the school will receive anywhere between £500,000 and £4 million from the  Department of Education for its project. 

While the Department has explained the exact funding allocation will not be made until further into the project, which is currently in the planning stages, principal of St Mary’s Paula Kelly said the amount the Fermanagh school will be allocated is expected to be significant. 

“This will mean funding of millions, for a major renovation and extension of the existing school building,” she said.

Ms Kelly said the funding would be used to replace the current foundation stage wing of the school with a two storey extension, which will include six new classrooms, a new library, as well as extra toilets and cloakrooms. The school also hopes to extend its staffroom, create additional resource area, and improve parking. 

“The approval is a reflection of the sustainability of St Mary’s,” said Ms Kelly. 

“The school’s population has increased significantly over the past 10 years to over 180 pupils and 25 staff members. 

“We hope that a newly renovated state of art the building will reflect the high level of learning and teaching and outstanding pastoral care which are already ingrained in the ethos of the school. 

Cllr Thomas O’Reilly, who is a past pupil of the school and is on its board of governors, said the announcement had been “long awaited” and would help build the “a purpose fit building” for the school. 

“The school is an integral part of the community in the village and wider area,” he said. 

“It’s very important the work is now undertaken to scope out exactly what this money can not alone for the children but the school for future generations, so we secure a school that can be there long into the future.” 

Cllr O’Reilly praised the work of Ms Kelly and the school staff, and the commitment of Fr King and those who give their time on the board of governors.