Pupils have been reportedly overlooked in the merger process of three schools on Northern Ireland’s north coast. This assertion comes from governors of Dunluce School, who recently withdrew from the interim board of Causeway Academy. The governors cited a “total misunderstanding” of school governance by those leading the project, raising significant concerns about the future of education in the area.
Causeway Academy is set to open in September 2026, merging Coleraine College, North Coast Integrated College, and Dunluce School. Despite this, the academy will initially operate across the three existing sites in Coleraine and Bushmills, as the Education Authority (EA) has described this approach as “student-centred.” The EA claims this model aims to minimize student movement throughout their post-primary education, but it has drawn criticism from local leaders.
The East Londonderry assembly member Cara Hunter expressed concern, stating that the situation has left the three schools “in total disarray.” She emphasized the lack of clarity regarding the future site for Causeway Academy and how the amalgamation will proceed. Initially, plans suggested constructing a new school on the campus of Ulster University in Coleraine, but with no new building in sight, confusion has arisen about how the new academy will function.
Parents have voiced their worries in previous consultations, citing concerns that without a new single school building, the merger could disrupt student education and reduce parental choice. In a letter to the EA, the five governors from Dunluce School criticized the leadership of the project, calling for independent oversight to ensure effective preparation for the new academy. They stated that this oversight should not be appointed by the EA but agreed upon by all stakeholders involved.
Independent assembly member Claire Sugden called for the Department of Education to take responsibility for the uncertainty surrounding the academy’s future. She noted that the resignations of the governors are disappointing but not surprising, given the lack of clarity from the department. Sugden highlighted the essential work done by the interim board and stressed that families and staff are left “in limbo,” uncertain about whether pupils will remain at the three separate sites for the foreseeable future.
In response, the EA acknowledged the complexities involved in the transition process. A spokesperson stated that the academy is set to open in September 2026 across the three existing sites, aiming to maximize the educational experience for all students while allowing exam year groups to complete their education at their current locations. They recognized that these changes might lead to differing opinions but insisted on collaboration with stakeholders to deliver improvements in sustainable education through the amalgamation.
Education Minister Paul Givan addressed concerns during a session of Stormont’s Education Committee on October 22, indicating that the three-site model is likely to continue. He acknowledged that the ideal situation would involve a single site, but noted that the estimated cost of over £20 million for such a construction is beyond the department’s current capital budget.
“It’s not acceptable in my view that this is where we are with these three schools,” Givan stated. “I don’t believe that is an outcome which is the best.”
As the situation continues to unfold, the community remains anxious about the long-term vision for Causeway Academy and the impact on students who feel they have been neglected in the planning process. The EA’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised by the governors and local members will be crucial in restoring confidence in the future of education in Northern Ireland’s north coast.
