Minister for Education and Science, Mary Hanafin, T.D., today officially opened the newly refurbished and extended St. James's National School, Bushy Park, Galway. St. James's National School is a co-educational national school which has a current enrolment of more than 350 pupils.
The Department of Education and Science provided €2.5 million funding towards these works. The new extension consists of seven classrooms, a school library, staff room, administrative area, learning-support room, multi-purpose room and associated site works. 'This impressive extension and refurbishment provides a stimulating rich atmosphere and environment for teaching and learning opportunities for our modern and innovative primary school curriculum. I am delighted too that St. James's will receive further funding under this year's Summer Works Scheme to extend and develop the playground' said Minister Hanafin.
The school is involved in the Green Schools Programme, Pilot Project in Modern Languages, Outreach Programme, a wide range of sporting activities, Irish dancing and drama. Commenting on the school's commitment to education, Minister Hanafin said 'the school motto 'to be the best that we can be' reflects the broad educational vision of the local school community, which I note is clearly encapsulated in your mission statement and reflected in your involvement in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities, initiatives and projects.'
The Minister highlighted the strong links that have been developed between St James's National School and NUI, Galway. As part of the outreach programme in NUIG, groups from various Science Departments in the University give workshops on various areas of Science to pupils. The Minister commended the school's involvement in the Fionn Science project, organised by the Galway Education Centre, which supports the Government's commitment to produce quality skilled graduates who can meet the high value job needs of the emerging sectors of our economy. 'Science films made by pupils of St James' N.S. during the project are available for people around the world to view' said Minister Hanafin.
Minister Hanafin again reiterated her commitment to the Irish language when highlighting the tradition of St James's National School in the area of 'Drámaíocht trí Ghaeilge' and reminded her audience of her recent announcement in relation to the employment of 30 additional support teachers who will be seconded specifically to support the teaching of Irish in primary schools across the country.
Minister Hanafin concluded by thanking the principal, Mr Joe Carney, chairperson, Mr. John Sweeney and members of the board of management, teachers and parents for their commitment to the building project and said 'you should all be proud of these new facilities. I wish the school continued success in the provision of a quality education for Bushy Park pupils.'
End.