A call out to all past pupils of Galvin Primary School as final preparations are being put together for reunion

What was (for 66 years) Galvin Primary School, built as a mass house in the mid-1840s, is situated at the base of Benbradagh mountain in the townland of Gortgarn.

Falling numbers and having progressed into a state not fit for purpose resulted in its closure in June 1967 when the majority of the pupils transferred to the newly erected St Matthew’s Primary School in Drumsurn.

Having ceased as a seat of learning 57 years ago all former pupils will now be aged over 60 having grown up in the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s with one or two back as far as the 1930s. Those were the best of times. No smartphones (no phones of any sort), no iPads, no laptops, no social media.

The old school building remains a symbol of a shared past within the immediate area and indeed within the wider population. Memories for most of those who passed through its doors would be mixed but the majority would concede that despite some imperfections it gave all who attended a good grounding and served them well as they made their way later in the world.

The last and indeed the only coming together of past pupils took place in 1997. Regrettably some of those who attended are no longer with us.

Plans for a further reunion are now at and advanced stage and we invite all past pupils and indeed anyone having a present or past association with the school to come along on Saturday, June 29 and join in the celebrations. This is a great opportunity to become reacquainted with old friends, reminisce and recount stories from those good old days.

Items on display will include old school artefacts, photographs, roll books and recent publications by the local history group.

The day’s fun will continue from 1pm with games and a BBQ included.

Gelvin Community Association gratefully acknowledges the financial support provided by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council (through the Social Connections Fund) to help celebrate this event.