News of nursery class 'not all rosy'

However, the Education Minister’s announcement of a boost for pre-school education is not as rosy as it seems.

At the present time the Francis Street school has two nursery classes and one reception class. The new nursery class, which will provide 26 full-time places for children, will replace the current reception class of 30 - a loss of four pre-school places.

It’s understood the Minister’s approval has come too late for the school to have the new nursery class in place for September 2010. Instead the reception class looks set to carry on for another year.

In granting approval for the new nursery class Education Minister Caitriona Ruane said: “I am committed to improving the quality of pre-school education provision for children in the north. Attendance at nursery school is an enriching experience which helps children build vital interpersonal skills and gives them confidence before they progress into primary school.

“This new unit at St Francis’ Primary School will make a strong contribution to the level of provision in Lurgan, providing an excellent stepping stone for children as they begin their educational journeys.”