Major extension underway at St. Clare's in BJD

Work has commenced on a major extension at St. Clare's College in Ballyjamesduff. In a recent visit to the college, Minister Brendan Smith confirmed funding to complete this most ambitious development. The original building, designed by Gaffney and Cullivan Architects in 1982, is considered to be an excellent example of good school architecture. Welcoming the announcement, the principal Sean Fegan said: "I am delighted that the Department of Education and Science has recognised our growing needs." Mr. Fegan praised the spirit of cooperation that exists among all the partners involved in the college. Bishop Leo O'Reilly and the Catholic Diocese of Kilmore are the Trustees of St. Clare's College. Bishop O'Reilly, together with Board of Management, Parents Association, staff and Students Council share a united approach. "They all contributed to the successes, which have raised the profile of this school and brought us to this juncture," said the principal. A new senior block will comprise of twelve new classrooms. Also included in the current project are: a gymnasium, canteen, art room, library, an extended metalwork/engineering room, a design communication graphics room, toilet facilities and office space. As numbers increase, against the backdrop of current economic limitations, the Board of Management of the college has adopted a novel approach. Their plan, in place since 2005, is to develop all construction projects in an incremental manner. Architects are told that all developments should be considered to be long-term and must be adaptable. This will eliminate the need for a major rebuild in future years. Under this scheme, the college has already constructed new classrooms, as well as newly refurbished science, woodwork and home economics rooms. The attic and walls of the original school have also been insulated to meet new energy regulations. The Parents Association raised €70,000 towards the construction of a metalwork room in 2006. This year sees also the second stage of the development of a five-acre playing field at the school. The field was levelled, drained and re-seeded recently. When the turf is established, it is hoped to sand-dress and sand-slit the facility. When finished the school will boast one of the country's best outdoor playing facilities. The first stage of the current development is due for completion in May and the project should be finished before Christmas.