Two Wicklow Post-Primary Schools Get Funds To Extend

Both Coláiste Chraobh Abhann in Kilcoole and Blessington Community College are included for in the Department of Education Capital Plan.

Coláiste Chraoibh Abhainn in Kilcoole and Blessington Community College will benefit from significant expansion projects. They've been selected for government grant funding to boost their on-site infrastructure.

Tánaiste and Wicklow TD Simon Harris has announced the investment today as part of the Department of Education Capital Plan, representing a major investment in the county's educational infrastructure.  

Speaking today, Finance Minister Simon Harris said:

This is fantastic news for students, families and communities in Kilcoole and Blessington. I have been working intensively with my Cabinet colleague, Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton, to ensure that Wicklow schools remain a top priority in the Government's capital investment programme and today's announcement demonstrates our continued commitment to delivering modern, fit-for-purpose educational facilities across the county.

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• Coláiste Chraoibh Abhainn in Kilcoole has been approved for a large-scale extension project to deliver a 1,000-pupil post-primary school with special educational needs provision. The project is currently at Stage 3 of the delivery process.
• Blessington Community College has also been approved for a large-scale extension and refurbishment project to deliver a 1,000-pupil post-primary school with SEN provision, currently at Stage 2b.

The Tánaiste added:

As someone born and raised in Wicklow, I understand first-hand the pressures that population growth has placed on our schools. The rapid expansion of communities across the county, particularly in North Wicklow, has created significant demand for additional school places.

“That is why I have been relentless in engaging with the Department of Education to seek solutions and ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace with our growing population.

"When we invest in schools, we are investing in the future of our children and our communities. It should not matter where you come from or what your background is, every child deserves the opportunity to learn to grow and to reach their full potential.

“These school projects will help ensure that children in Kilcoole and Blessington have access to the modern learning environments they deserve.

Simon Harris went on to say :

“Every child, regardless of their needs, must have the opportunity to fully participate in education and reach their potential.  I want to thank Minister Naughton and officials in the Department of Education for their continued engagement on Wicklow school projects.  I will continue to work closely with her to ensure that these projects are progressed as quickly as possible and that we continue to invest in educational infrastructure across the county."