Northern Ireland's Education Minister, John O'Dowd, has visited a £1.29 million extension project at Acorn Integrated Primary School.

The extension has provided the school, which is located in Carrickfergus, with three new classrooms as well as a new play area. It has been funded through the School Enhancement Programme (SEP), which provides schools with an opportunity to enhance and extend the life-span of the existing estate.

Visiting the school, Minister O'Dowd said: "I am delighted to be here today to see what a difference this project has made to the fabric of Acorn Integrated. The new facilities have provided a real boost which will enhance the learning environment and ensure that the school is well equipped to deliver the curriculum well into the future.

-- Advertisement --

"Projects like this one have been made possible through the School Enhancement Programme, which not only benefits the classroom, but also supports the local construction industry.

"Improving the schools' estate remains a key priority for me and I will seek additional funds to ensure that this important area of work continues to get the attention it deserves."

Acorn Integrated Primary School has an enrolment of 201 pupils, and 26 children in the Nursery Unit. The extension works have been completed by Newmac Contracts, Portadown.

(JP/LM)