
A newly refurbished art suite costing £163,000 was opened at St Joseph's Boys High School in Newry by Education Minister John O'Dowd on Wednesday.
The refurbishment works were completed following the investment from the Department of Education under the minor works programme. The Minister also joined in with pupils participating in home economics and music classes and discussed employability skills with pupils in a careers education class.
The Minister said: “It is a pleasure to be here in St Joseph’s Boys’ High School today and I would like to thank the Principal, Hugh Mallon and all those connected with the school for their warm welcome.
“In particular I welcome the opportunity to officially open and view the fantastic new art suite at the school which has been completed with funding of £163,000 from my Department.
“Continued investment in our schools estate is essential if we are to help support our teaching staff to deliver a quality education to all our children and young people.
“As well as having a positive impact on our young people, this investment also provides a much needed boost to the construction industry, helping to sustain local jobs. It is therefore good to see representatives from the local project contractor and architects firm here today to help celebrate the completion of this important piece of work.”
The Minister concluded: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my visit to St Joseph’s Boys’ today. I was very impressed by the talent and enthusiasm of the pupils I met. Finally, I want to commend the Principal and the Board of Governors on their leadership and the whole staff body for their continuing hard work.”


