St. Colman’s to mark new school with ball

THE opening of the new state of the art St. Colman’s Primary in September is set to mark a new chapter in the history of Lambeg school.

It has been two years since the staff and pupils moved to the old Balmoral High School on Blacks Road while their new premises were being built.

Their former school was knocked down as work got underway to create a school for the 21st century.

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And to celebrate this momentous occasion the St. Colman’s Primary School’s Parents Association are inviting past pupils and anyone who has a connection with the school to a gala ball in the Europa Hotel this Saturday, June 16.

Damien Early, Chairman of the Parents Association, said: “The aim is to raise much needed funds for the new school but it is also important to mark the past 44 years and to bring everyone together for a social occasion.

“The school has been at the heart of St. Colman’s Parish in Lambeg and thousands of children have been through its doors so it’s a good opportunity to meet old friends, past pupils or simply enjoy a great night out.”

The night will include a cocktail reception followed by a four-course meal and entertainment.

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The Parents Association are also gathering old photographs or videos and would love to hear from anyone who may possess any to come forward.

Damien said: “We want to build up a picture of the school’s history so if anyone can help us we’d be very grateful if they would get in touch with us through the school reception.”

Tickets for the ball cost £35 each and can be bought at the school reception - telephone 9030 1578. The Parents Association are also seeking sponsors for tables and donations for raffle prizes.

St. Colman’s Primary School opened on March 4, 1968. The Ordnance Survey maps of Lambeg drawn in the late 19th century show the site now occupied by St. Colman’s Church and the school was originally a stadium where the sport of trotting was held which explains the naming of the Sportman’s Inn (now Robbie Cahoon’s) which was situated near the school.

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In 1968 the Primary School was blessed and officially opened by the Bishop of the diocese. There was an enrolment of 176 pupils and the school building comprised of six classrooms, an assembly hall and an administrative block. It was designed by Mr. Eddie Kilpatrick who was also the architect of the first St. Colman’s Church in 1957.

By 1970 the architect had drawn plans for a six-classroom permanent extension. In the first 25 years 1,517 children’s names were recorded on the General Register.

In March 1993 there were 317 pupils, a Principal and 12 teachers. The school was enhanced by the landscaping and new entrance laid for the new Church which opened in September 1991.