14 fabulous photographs as Upper Ballyboley PS celebrated ahead of closure

Former pupils gathered alongside retired teachers and current staff to celebrate the history of Upper Ballyboley Primary as the rural school on the outskirts of Ballyclare prepared to close its doors for the final time.

The school, which has helped to educate generations of families in the Braepark Road area for over 180 years, closed on June 28 following a decision taken by the Department of Education in 2023.

To celebrate the facility’s rich heritage and vital role in the community, a special event was staged at Ballyclare Golf Club on Thursday, June 27.

Here are 14 amazing pictures from the event at the Springvale Road venue.

5. Upper Ballyboley PS celebrated

Local historian Ronnie Hazzard spoke about the school's long history. Photo: Contributed

6. Upper Ballyboley PS celebrated

Some former and current staff of Upper Ballyboley PS. Photo: Contributed

7. Upper Ballyboley PS celebrated

Some of the school's final cohort of pupils. Photo: Contributed

8. Upper Ballyboley PS celebrated

Valerie Bryans, former Principal, speaking at the event. Photo: Contributed

Ballyclare Department of Education