Building work commenced at St Patrick's post-primary school in Downpatrick this week.

The NI Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, cut the first sod on Wednesday and said that building a new school is always an exciting time.

"This new £15million school building will serve the educational interests of all the young people in Downpatrick and the surrounding area.

"It is one of four new school buildings announced in a £45million school build initiative," she continued.

"It is good news for the parents and young people in Downpatrick who will be educated in bright new classrooms, with enhanced learning facilities capable of preparing them for the 21st century challenges facing them as they leave school for the world of work.

-- Advertisement --

"I welcome the approach St Patrick's post-primary school is taking by working with other schools in the area.

"The draft RPA Policy Paper on area-based planning was out to consultation in 2008 and is being finalised.

"It is an important driver in achieving the vision for education since it is about identifying the education needs of children and young people on an area basis and planning to meet those needs.

"Collaborative working, with a focus on outcomes for pupils rather than on the needs of institutions or buildings, represents the way forward for education," she concluded.

St Patrick's will cost £15million for a new building on the existing site. It is due to open to new and existing enrolments in 2011.

(BMcC/JM)