Minister announces closure of St Gemma’s High School, Belfast

Education Minister, John O'Dowd, has approved the closure of St Gemma's High School, Belfast from 31 August 2013.
~ Wednesday, 9 January 2013

Commenting on the decision, Mr O’Dowd said: “A proposal to close St Gemma’s High School was included in the NI Commission for Catholic Education (NICCE) review of post-primary education for the north Belfast and Glengormley area and also in the Belfast Education and Library Board’s post-primary area plan.

“I appreciate that St Gemma’s High School has forged very close links with the Ardoyne community which it has served over the past 45 years and that its closure will be a disappointment to those who have been closely associated with the school during this time.

“In making my decision, however, the educational interests of the pupils were at the forefront of my considerations. Unfortunately, the sharply declining enrolments at St Gemma’s meant that the school was increasingly unable to provide the full range and quality of curricular offer that is required, particularly at the GCSE and post-16 phases. Having considered all of the evidence, I have therefore concluded that St Gemma’s is no longer sustainable and that closure is the only option.”

The Minister added: “I know that every effort will be made by those involved to ensure that the transition arrangements for the children go smoothly and I wish the staff and the pupils of St Gemma’s well for the future.”