Crane comes in as work progresses on Scoil Íosagáin’s new school building
“We're really looking forward to welcoming our new Junior Infants as they begin their primary school education at Scoil Íosagáin, at a time when the building of our new school is now well under way.”
Construction of the brand-new school building for Scoil Íosagáin in Buncrana – the largest primary school in Donegal – is firmly under way, with pupils and staff returning this week to see significant changes on site.
The project, which began earlier this year after school patron Bishop Donal McKeown turned the sod in January, has already made visible progress over the summer months.
Work on the first phase of the development has advanced to ground floor level, with temporary classrooms installed to facilitate the demolition and construction programme.
First mooted as far back as 2011, the new school will transform the educational facilities available at Scoil Íosagáin on a site that has provided primary education for boys and girls in Buncrana for over a century. Currently, there are 800 pupils on the rolls there.
The development will involve the demolition of the existing Sacred Heart and St Columba’s school buildings, the removal of old temporary structures, and the construction of a modern two-storey, 25-classroom primary school. Of these, eight will be dedicated to pupils with special needs, reflecting the school’s commitment to inclusivity.
The new school building, which also includes staff rooms and office space, will come in at 6,335 square metres.
Principal Sinéad McLaughlin said the new development marks the start of an exciting chapter for the school community.
“As we prepare for the beginning of a new school year we're even more excited than usual,” she said. “We're really looking forward to welcoming our new Junior Infants as they begin their primary school education at Scoil Íosagáin, at a time when the building of our new school is now well underway.
Ms McLaughlin said the progress so far has been heartening for everyone connected with the school.
“Since the turning of the sod by Bishop McKeown in January, there's been great progress in terms of construction of phase one of the build. This is due to be completed by April 2026.
“The second phase will involve the demolition of the Sacred Heart school to make way for the completion of the new school. The final phase will include the provision of recreation facilities, car-parking and landscaping,” she explained.
She added that the support and commitment of the wider school community has been crucial in getting to this stage.
“To see the new school now taking shape is a great boost for all of us,” Ms McLaughlin said. “The Board of Management has worked tirelessly to get us to this stage, while staff, parents and pupils have been steadfast and persistent in their support. We look forward to continued progress in the months ahead.”
The new building is set to provide state-of-the-art classrooms and resources, ensuring that the school remains at the heart of Buncrana’s educational life for generations to come.