Education Minister Paul Givan to be told Holy Family School in Magherafelt is 'no longer fit for purpose'

Education Minister Paul Givan MLA is expected to visit Holy Family Primary School in Magherafelt on Wednesday to discuss the need for a new school building.

Almost 600 pupils from more than 20 nationalities presently attend the school, but the aging infrastructure is struggling to accommodate the growing needs of its diverse student body.

This visit highlights the school’s ongoing efforts to secure much-needed support for a new facility, which will provide a better learning environment for its students and staff.

The Minister will tour the school, meet with staff and students, and discuss the pressing concerns with the school’s leadership.

Education Minister Paul Givan .(Photo by PAUL FAITH/AFP via Getty Images)placeholder image
Education Minister Paul Givan .(Photo by PAUL FAITH/AFP via Getty Images)

School principal, John McCormack, emphasized the importance of the visit and the urgent need for new facilities.

He said: “Holy Family Primary is a thriving, multicultural school, and we are immensely proud of our pupils’ achievements. However, our current building is no longer fit for purpose, and without significant investment, we are limited in how we can support our students’ learning and development. We are hopeful that Minister Givan’s visit will mark a positive step toward securing the funding we so desperately need.”

placeholder image
Read More
Adorable first day at school pictures sent into the Mid Ulster Mail by proud par...

The school has been at the heart of the community now for over one hundred and 35 years offering a welcoming and inclusive environment to children from various backgrounds.

Holy Family Primary School, Magherafelt. Credit: Googleplaceholder image
Holy Family Primary School, Magherafelt. Credit: Google

However, the rapid increase in enrolment and the growing needs of its students have made it clear that the current facilities are no longer sufficient.

Mr Givan’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to engaging with schools in need and addressing issues related to infrastructure and resources.

The school is optimistic that this meeting will bring much-needed attention to their situation.

Related topics:
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice