Historic change in Castlebar educational landscape
A historic development is unfolding in the educational landscape of Mayo.
The two longest-established primary schools in Castlebar, St. Angela’s Girls N.S. and St. Patrick’s Boys N.S., will amalgamate in September 2022, providing co-education for all pupils.
The new school will comprise a junior campus (junior infants to second class) located at the Lawn and a senior campus (third to sixth class) located at Chapel Street.
Both schools have contributed to the educational and social fabric of the town for well over 100 years, with the Sisters of Mercy having founded St. Angela’s in 1854 and soon afterwards the De La Salle Brothers founding St. Patrick’s in 1888.
This new chapter presents wonderful opportunities for pupils, parents and staff and enables the bringing together in one school the best traditions, cultures, facilities and expertise of the two existing schools.
A steering committee, chaired by Malachy Molloy and comprised of nominees from key stakeholder groups, including staff, parents and boards of management, is overseeing the planning for the amalgamation.
Key decisions have already been taken, including the name of the new school which is to be Castlebar Primary School.
The motto for the new school will be ‘Together We Achieve’.
In a change from the existing colour schemes in both schools, red and navy will be the predominant colours for the new uniform.
Children have been actively contributing to these decisions, including the design of the new crest which will be unveiled later.
Very positive discussions have already taken place on the connectivity between the two campuses. The two principals, Nessa Maloney (St. Angela’s) and Joe Carty (St. Patrick’s), acknowledged and complimented the support received from colleagues on staff, children and their families.
While both schools continue to thrive in terms of facilities, resources and expertise they keenly agreed that the educational opportunities and experiences offered to the children will be even further enhanced together.
The combined school will further develop existing facilities such as pre and after schools, playing fields, running tracks, extensive play areas, sensory rooms, assembly halls and state-of-the-art ICT resources.
A highly-skilled and professional staff will ensure the progression of many great initiatives including Creative Schools, Digital Schools of Excellence, Active Schools, National Children's Choir and many other extra-curricular opportunities which have long been synonymous with St Angela’s and St Patrick’s.
The promotion of activities such as music, art, drama, dance, sport, public speaking and chess will continue to be central to the new school.
High educational standards with a focus on the care and wellbeing of all pupils and staff will be the hallmarks of Castlebar Primary School.
The success of the school and, ultimately, the best educational experience and outcome for pupils, families and staff will be the driving force.
Enrolments for the new Castlebar Primary School are being taken by St. Angela's and St. Patrick's at present for the 2022/2023 academic year.