Last day for school which served the community for over 40 years

Dunmurry High School, which first opened 44 years ago, will officially close but some of the pupils have already left and to mark the historic occasion a reunion was held at the school grounds recently when 400 past pupils were given the chance to walk around the grounds and reminisce.

They then headed to the Beechlawn Hotel for a special event which was organised by former pupil Paul Bennington and a small committee.

Earlier in the term, an emotional special assembly was held where pupils were given attendance awards and prizes.

Principal Mervyn Magee said that Friday will be a sad day for all those connected with the school that has been held in such high esteem for so many years and been a focal point for the Dunmurry community.

“We are all very disappointed at the decision made about the closure there is no doubt about that,” said Mr Magee. “It has been an emotional time for many.”

Education Minister John O’Dowd announced in April the school would finally close in June. Many of the 21 teachers were successful in gaining employment in other schools while five, including Mr Magee who has been at the school for three years, are to retire. Some of the other staff took redundancy packages.

The pupils will all be starting other school, from September.

“It will be a sad and emotional day,” said Mr Magee. “We had an excellent reunion in the school for past pupils. “There were tears from the pupils who have already left for the last time and no doubt there will be one or two from the staff who are getting ready to leave. Some staff who have been with us for nearly 30 years. It is also a sad say for the community to lose such a school.

“This month has been busy with pupils continuing to focus on their studies and still coming in to do their GCSE exams.

“Personally I would like to wish the very best of luck to all the teachers and staff as they continue with their chosen careers and the pupils in whatever the future holds for them.

“This has been a fabulous school and a tremendous place and one that we will all miss very much.”

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