Eastwood backs campaign to save 71 year old Derry primary school St. Columba’s, Newbuildings
Colum Eastwood has offered his support for a campaign to save St. Columba’s Primary School in Newbuilding after a proposal was brought forward to close it next year.
The SDLP MP was speaking after the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools submitted a proposal to the Education Authority for the discontinuation of the school in 2027.
The school said it was grateful to have the support of Mr. Eastwood, ‘as we do all we can to protect the future of St Columba’s PS’
The proposal has been put forward in consultation with the Trustees.
St Columba’s has served Newbuildings since 1955 when it replaced the old Rossnagalliagh PS in the village.
Rossnagalliagh became a majority Catholic school when the controlled Newbuildings PS was established that year.
Under the proposal St. Columba’s will discontinue with effect from August 31, 2027.
Mr. Eastwood said: “I’ve been contacted by a number of concerned parents about the proposal to close St Columba’s PS in Newbuildings. St Columba’s is at the heart of the local community and has played an important role for many decades in giving parents choice in the area.
“It would be a real shame to see the school close its doors after so many years of providing young people with an excellent education. The staff go above and beyond and care deeply about the future of the school and its pupils. I know there is a campaign underway to save St Columba’s, and it has my full support.”
A pre-publication consultation was conducted earlier this year.
A case for change document stated enrolment fell from 64 in 2015/16 to 37 in 2026/27.
“Having considered the sustainability evidence, statutory area‑planning duties, and the feedback received during pre‑publication consultation, CCMS has concluded that discontinuance of St Columba’s PS represents the most sustainable and proportionate option for maintained primary provision in the area,” it states.
The document said ‘CCMS does not consider that the school can return to a sustainable position’.
Mr. Eastwood said he has been in contact with the EA on behalf of the school.
"The final decision will rest with the Education Minister, and they must listen to the views of parents, staff and the whole school community and keep St Columba’s open so they can continue their good work,” he declared.