WORK has begun on the new state of the art Enniskillen Model Primary School.
The new two storey building will consist of 14 modern classrooms, two classroom language centres and further support accommodation.
The school currently has over 450 pupils and 50 teaching and non-teaching staff members based at the Castlecoole Road site. It is believed the new school, which is being built on the site of the old facility, will cost around £6 million and will take around two years to complete.
The current building has been operational since 1974 after a fire destroyed the previous school, and the new build has been in the pipeline for several years.
The design of the new primary school will incorporate the former red brick schoolhouse, a historically important Grade B1 listed building, built some 150 years ago.
Recently, pupils and staff from the School welcomed education officials and special guests for a ceremonial sod-cutting to mark the start of building work.
Speaking about the progress and the sod cutting event, Principal Winston Glass said, “We are delighted to see our new school building well underway, which will serve children, staff and parents for many years to come. It was a special day for the entire school and I would like to thank the Board of Governors, staff, parents and pupils for their patience and their continued support. I would also like to thank everyone involved, for their commitment to the project.”
The new facilities are funded by the Department of Education and delivered through the EA’s Major Capital Works Programme.
Education Authority (EA) chairwoman Sharon O’Connor attended the sod cutting event and praised the dedication of the school staff, governors and education officials who have brought the project to this important stage of construction.
“I would like to congratulate everyone for their hard work as construction takes place on what will be a new chapter for Enniskillen Model Primary School. It is an exciting time for everyone involved – the pupils, staff past and present, parents, governors and indeed the wider community.”
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