A primary school in County Down has been approved for closure by the Northern Ireland education minister after falling rolls meant that just 20 pupils joined the school this academic year.

Pupils at St John’s Primary School in Glenn, Newry, which opened in 1955, will move to schools in the surrounding area following the decision by Caitriona Ruane.

Ms Ruane said: “I am sure all those involved, including parents and school staff, will work hard to ensure a smooth transition for the children to their new school and I wish them all the best in the future.”

Northern Ireland’s sustainable schools policy suggests that the minimum enrolment for primary schools should be 105 in rural areas. But around a third of Northern Ireland primary schools currently have less than 100 pupils enrolled. Area-based planning schemes are in the pipeline to accommodate pupils in rural areas when their schools are closed. MR.