Education Minister joined excited staff and pupils
in Downpatrick today to celebrate the official opening of Down
High School.
The new school at Strangford Road now provides state-of-the-art
facilities for 950 pupils.
Speaking at the opening ceremony said: It is a pleasure to be
here to celebrate the official opening of Down High School
today.
This major project saw significant investment of over £53million,
which will provide state-of-the-art facilities. The campus also
boasts outstanding sports facilities such as a sports hall, PE
facilities and sports pitches.
It has been quite a journey. Everyone involved should be proud of
what has been achieved.
As we look ahead, I wish everyone at Down High School continued
success. I have no doubt that this new school building will be a
place where pupils thrive, where talents are discovered and
futures shaped.
Principal Maud Perry said: This official opening marks an
important milestone in the history of the school, celebrating
both a new chapter in the life of our community and a continued
commitment to the traditions, values and enduring ethos that have
defined the school since its foundation in 1933. Thanks to all
those who were part of making it happen.
, Chairperson of the Education
Authority, said: The new campus at Down High School represents a
significant investment in the children and young people of Newry,
Mourne and Down.
"Every child deserves to be educated in fit-for-purpose
facilities where they can reach their full potential. This new
campus offers pupils exactly that- state-of-the-art classrooms
and outstanding sports facilities that will significantly enhance
learning opportunities and continue to inspire future generations
to come.
Congratulations to the pupils, principal, staff and entire
project team for their dedication in bringing this first-class
school to fruition."
Construction of the school commenced in January 2023 and was
completed on target in June 2025, with first pupils welcomed in
September 2025.
The design was completed by the Integrated Consultancy Team led
by McAdam Design and Graham Construction N.I. Ltd was appointed
as the building contractor.
During this project, an early neolithic site was discovered,
leading to one of the most significant archaeological excavations
undertaken on the island of Ireland in the past 30 years.
Notes for editors:
1. Graham Construction N.I. Ltd completed the construction work.
2. The design was completed by the Integrated Consultancy Team
led by McAdam Design
