26/10/2016

First School To Be Completed On Strule Education Campus Unveiled

The first school to be completed on the Strule Education Campus has been unveiled in Omagh, Co Tyrone.

Arvalee School and Resource Centre has been described as a "new era" for shared education in the area and officially opened in September 2016.

First Minister Arlene Foster and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness joined Education Minister, Peter Weir in Omagh to celebrate the opening.

Students presented a musical showcase, including songs they had written themselves based on the Strule ethos of 'Broadening Horizons'. Produced over the past month through a series of music workshops, students have been exploring themes including cohesion, collaboration and partnership.

Arlene Foster said: "It is the first and important step in the completion of Strule Shared Education Campus which was an Executive commitment within the last Programme for Government. The project involves significant capital investment of over £150million into the construction of six core schools and associated shared education facilities to cater for the needs of more than 4,000 pupils."

Christian Brothers Grammar School, Loreto Grammar School, Omagh Academy Grammar School, Omagh High School, and Sacred Heart College will be joining Arvalee on site for the planned campus opening in 2020

Mr McGuinness said: "This £8.2 million Executive investment in Arvalee School and Resource Centre signals a new era for shared education. This new purpose built school will enhance the education experience of pupils in the greater Omagh area for generations.

"Strule Shared Education Campus is at the forefront of shared education facilities and locating the schools together enables greater understanding and provides the space in which mutual respect and friendships can grow. The campus approach facilitates better connectivity between mainstream and special needs schools."

Minister Weir said: "As the first school on the campus, the opening of Arvalee is a major accomplishment within the overall Strule programme. I am very pleased to be here today to mark the achievements of everyone involved and celebrate alongside pupils and staff.

"I have particularly enjoyed the musical performances which have brought to life the significance of Strule Campus as an exciting new chapter for students, the greater Omagh area, and the education sector."

Pics: Presseye

(CD/MH)

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