Milestone move in Mayo primary education
A SIGNIFICANT development in the history of primary education in Castlebar has been initiated.
The county town's two biggest national schools – St. Angela's Girls NS and St. Patrick's Boys NS – have entered a consultation process with a view to achieving co-education status.
They currently cater for over 760 pupils and 68 staff between them and they are both under the patronage of the Archbishop of Tuam, Dr. Michael Neary.
A joint statement issued by the two schools to The Connaught Telegraph confirmed the milestone move.
It stated: “The boards of management of our schools have given consent to an initial process of consultation involving all stakeholders from both school communities.
“The purpose of this consultation is to gather information, seek opinions and establish what is necessary to enhance the future development of the two schools.
“The aim is to provide the best educational experience for their existing and prospective students.
“The consultation will involve input from all stakeholders - boards of management, staff, parents, school patron and the Department of Education and Skills.
“Any decisions, including the possible restructuring of both schools to provide for co-education, will only be taken following wide and meaningful consultation with all parties involved.
“Both schools have a great tradition and reputation for providing wonderful, holistic educational experiences for their pupils in a safe and caring environment.
“It is a priority that the high standards of education which have been their hallmark over many years are maintained and this will be central to the upcoming process.”
The statement was signed by Úna Lydon, chairperson, board of management, St. Patrick's NS board of management, and Noreen Walsh, chairperson, St. Angela’s NS.
It is understood the news has been received positively by staff of both schools who were informed of the proposals on Friday.
However, it is unclear at this point how long the process will take.
St. Angela's NS, located at the Lawn, was founded in 1852 shortly after the Sister of Mercy set up a convent in Castlebar. It primarily catered for the girls but did, in its early years, teach boys up to the age of nine.
Today, there are 348 pupils enrolled with a staff of 29.
St. Patrick's NS, sited at Chapel Street, was founded by the De La Brothers in 1888. It has an enrolment of 415 and a staff of 39.