Minister set to approve new school to replace Drumcree College

An official announcement is expected within the next few hours confirming that a new school to replace Drumcree College has been approved.

By The Newsroom

Published 24th Mar 2016, 10:43 BST

Updated 24th Mar 2016, 11:12 BST

Education Minister John O’Dowd is believed to have given the go-ahead for a proposal by the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS).

The Portadown Times understands Drumcree College will close and will be replaced by St John the Baptist College, which will open in September.

The school will initially take 11-14-year-old pupils.

Sinn Féin councillor Gemma McKenna said, “It is good news for Drumcree, good news for Catholic secondary education provision and good news for Portadown.

“Many people have been working hard over a long period of years to ensure the survival of the school. I am delighted that Minister John O’Dowd has approved the proposal which effectively will save Drumcree College as an education provider in the area.

“This really is a massive boost for the local community.”