Business Details
Inclusive Primary Education in Newry
St Oliver Plunkett's Primary School Forkhill is a fully inclusive educational institution dedicated to nurturing every child's potential through a committed and professional staff. Our curriculum emphasizes holistic development, integrating innovative programs like Forest Schools, Digital Leadership, and Accelerated Reading to engage students across academic, environmental, and technological domains. With a strong focus on community values, we celebrate diversity and individuality while fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and social responsibility. Our partnerships with local businesses and organizations, such as Joe's Caf and the Newry Chamber of Music, enrich learning experiences beyond the classroom. Through initiatives like the Eco Committee and School Council, we empower students to become active, compassionate contributors to society.Regular events, workshops, and performances highlight our commitment to creativity, wellbeing, and family engagement. Our website serves as a transparent portal for parents and stakeholders to stay informed about daily activities, policies, and achievements. Accredited with a nut-free environment and rigorous safeguarding standards, we prioritize student safety and health. Located in Forkhill, Newry, our school bridges tradition and innovation to prepare students for future challenges. With decades of service to the community, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide equitable, high-quality education for all.
Services
Primary Education
Forest Schools Program
Digital Leadership
Accelerated Reading
Eco Committee Initiatives
School Council Program
Community Partnerships
Wellbeing Workshops
Online Safety Education
Parental Engagement
Highlights and features
- We provide fully inclusive education with individualized support for all pupils
- Our innovative curriculum connects learning across academic, environmental, and technological domains
- We maintain a nut-free environment with rigorous health and safety standards
- Our Forest Schools program develops outdoor learning and environmental stewardship
- We offer extensive parental engagement through transparent communication channels
What people say
Dedicated staff
Inclusive environment
Engaging programs
Excellent communication
Safe learning space
Services
Primary Education
Our comprehensive primary education program serves children aged 4-11, delivering Northern Ireland's curriculum through innovative teaching methods. With mixed-grade classrooms from Primary 1-7, we focus on personalized learning while maintaining rigorous academic standards in literacy, numeracy, and cross-curricular projects.
Forest Schools Program
This initiative develops environmental awareness and practical skills through regular outdoor activities in natural settings. Children engage in structured sessions that build confidence, teamwork, and ecological understanding while connecting with local landscapes and seasonal changes.
Digital Leadership
Selected students become Digital Leaders, helping peers and staff integrate technology effectively while earning Seesaw digital badges. The program develops technical proficiency, digital citizenship, and leadership skills through hands-on peer mentoring and technology demonstrations.
Accelerated Reading
This personalized literacy program uses computerized assessments to assign reading levels and track progress. Students read self-selected books at their optimal challenge level, then complete quizzes to reinforce comprehension while earning recognition for achieving reading milestones.
Eco Committee Initiatives
Student-led environmental projects include tree planting, waste reduction campaigns, and sustainability education. The committee organizes eco-friendly practices across the school while engaging students in real-world conservation efforts that connect classroom learning with community action.
People
Kevin Woods
Principal
Principal Kevin Woods leads our dedicated staff with over 20 years of educational leadership experience. He champions inclusive education while maintaining rigorous academic standards and fostering community partnerships.
Ms Meehan
Class Teacher
Ms Meehan teaches Primary 1-2 classes, specializing in early childhood education. She creates nurturing learning environments that establish strong educational foundations through play-based and structured learning activities.
Mrs Morgan
Class Teacher
Mrs Morgan leads Primary 2-3 classes, focusing on developing fundamental literacy and numeracy skills. She integrates thematic learning approaches that connect subjects through engaging, real-world contexts.
Mrs McKenna
Class Teacher
Mrs McKenna teaches Primary 4-5 classes with emphasis on cross-curricular projects. She develops innovative learning experiences that combine academic skills with practical applications in everyday contexts.
Ms Murphy
Class Teacher
Ms Murphy leads Primary 5-6 classes, preparing students for secondary education. She specializes in transition programs that build independent learning skills and academic confidence through structured progression.
Questions
What age groups does St. Oliver Plunkett's serve?
We educate children aged 4-11 across Primary 1 through Primary 7 classes.
Is the school inclusive for children with special needs?
Yes, as a fully inclusive school, we provide tailored support for children with special educational needs.
What extracurricular programs are available?
We offer Forest Schools, Digital Leadership, Accelerated Reading, and Eco Committee initiatives.
How does the school engage with parents?
Through regular newsletters, online portals, and community events like our Christmas performances.
What safety measures are in place?
We maintain a nut-free environment, rigorous safeguarding policies, and regular wellbeing workshops.
Are there community partnerships?
Yes, we collaborate with local organizations including Joe's Caf and the Newry Chamber of Music.
