St. Columba’s PS head Tina Lyons ‘deeply touched’ by save the school campaign as deadline looms

Across the village neighbours have been opening their doors, sharing memories over cups of tea, signing petitions and speaking up for the Newbuildings school which is under threat of closure.

“We have been deeply touched by the warmth and generosity shown by the people of Newbuildings. It reminds us that a school is so much more than a building or an enrolment figure.

"It is part of the fabric of a community, and the relationships built here reach far beyond our school gates,” she said.

The school has been part of community life for more than 70 years, replacing the previous school (Rosnagalliagh school) which was opened in 1834.

However, under a live development proposal St. Columba’s will discontinue with effect from August 31, 2027.

A public consultation ends on November 10.

Mrs Emma Cooper, principal of neighbouring Newbuildings PS spoke of the importance of the Shared Education partnership between the two schools.

“Both schools have their own distinctive identity and ethos, but our children have developed genuine friendships that continue beyond the classroom.

"That is something very positive for the whole village. The partnership allows each school to retain its own distinctive ethos and identity while giving children the opportunity to understand, respect and learn alongside one another. It is a practical example of community relations happening naturally,” she said.

Jamie Mollison, parent and board member, says the level of community support has been humbling.

“We started knocking on doors hoping people might sign a petition, but what we experienced has been so much more than that. People have invited us in for cups of tea, shared their memories of the school and told us stories about growing up in Newbuildings.

“What has really touched us is that many people supporting us have no direct connection to St Columba’s. They simply recognise what the school means to the village

"We’ve met wonderful neighbours, made new friendships and been reminded that this is a community that genuinely cares about one another.

"We can’t thank people enough,” said Jamie.

Longstanding Newbuildings resident Ciara McGinley said: “Those of us who have lived in Newbuildings for many years know how much this village has grown.

"That hasn’t happened by accident. It has people building relationships, our two schools have played such an important part in that, and it has been lovely to see the whole village coming together to support its neighbours. That is the Newbuildings we are celebrating and protecting,” she said.

The school has also supported local sporting and community organisations through the use of its facilities includng Newbuildings United Football Club and In Your Space Circus School.

Ciaran Flannagan and Cath McBride from IYS said: “Through our dual-identity sessions with Newbuildings Primary School, we have witnessed meaningful connections develop between pupils. These relationships have extended beyond the classroom, continuing through activities at Newbuildings Youth Club, where we have also delivered sessions.

“Our conversations with young people during these projects have highlighted a clear desire to see Newbuildings grow into a welcoming, inclusive and diverse community.

"Schools play a vital role in realising this ambition, not only through education but also by creating opportunities for children and families to connect, develop relationships and build a shared sense of belonging.”

The campaign to keep the school open has attracted cross-partisan political support.

Mary Blake, Vice Chair of the Board of Governors and a parent at St Columba’s, said: “What strikes me about Newbuildings is that so much of the change we hoped for over many years is happening quietly. There are no ribbons being cut or plaques being unveiled.

"Children from different traditions are simply growing up having fun together. To them, it’s no big deal. They’re just friends.

“We talk a lot about bridges in this city. In many ways, our two schools are like the two sides of a bridge, helping bring the wider community together. Both have their own identity, and both contribute to the relationships that have developed here.

“It’s something the village should be very proud of, and something we hope will be fully recognised when the school’s future is considered,” she said.

The school also recently received a visit from the new Bishop of Derry Michael Router.

Gareth McFadden, Chair of the Board of Governors, said: “Bishop Router’s visit is a wonderful encouragement to our whole school community, and we are extremely grateful that he has taken the time to visit us.

"Our village has significant housing development ahead of it. We are not asking anyone to ignore the challenges facing small schools. We are asking for those challenges to be considered fairly, alongside our recovery plan, the changing needs of our community and the importance of parental choice.

"The extraordinary support we have received, including from the Churches Trust and from people across different backgrounds, demonstrates just how much St. Columba’s means to Newbuildings.”

The school campaign is asking supporters to write their own letter to Education Minister Paul Givan and the Department of Education explaining why they believe the school matters to children, families and the village.

The consultation deadline is November 10, 2026. Those who would like help preparing or submitting a letter can contact the school. Emails should be sent to the Area Planning Team at dps@education- ni.gov.uk Supporters can also sign and share the Saving St Columba’s Primary School, Newbuildings petition on www.tinyurl.com/savestcolumbas