Massive extension approved for county Kilkenny secondary school

A large secondary school in county Kilkenny is to undergo a huge transformation after it was announced funding for a massive extension has been obtained.

The project which will see 12 classrooms, a library, dining hall and 11 Special Education rooms built at Coláiste Mhuire in Johnstown, was approved on Friday.

Kilkenny TD John Paul Phelan made the announcement after funding was awarded by the Department of Education & Skills.

The overall project will see the construction of a new General Purpose/ Dining Hall, a School Library,12 general classrooms, two of which will replace prefabs at the school, 11 Special Education rooms, a new Home Economics, a new Graphics room, two new Science labs, a new Art room and a shared prep area, a new Engineering room, a new Tech prep area, two new project stores, and a new staff room.

In making the announcement Deputy Phelan acknowledged the hard work of Carlow Kilkenny ETB, Cllr Mary Hilda Cavanagh and the school community, including teachers, students, the board of management and the parents council, for their efforts in advancing the project:

Deputy Phelan said: “Great credit is due to the many people behind the scenes who are working so hard to get this project to construction.

“The development will hugely enhance the educational experience available to second level students in Johnstown and the broader North Kilkenny area.

“It will bring significant benefits to the school community for many years to come, ensuring students have the most modern facilities to learn and prepare for their futures and I look forward to work commencing on the ground,” Deputy Phelan concluded.

The school on the Urlingford Road currently caters for more than 600 students.