VISIT TO COLÁISTE POBAIL NAOMH MHUIRE BUTTEVANT, CO. CORK TO UNVEIL A FOUNDATION STONE
VISIT TO COLÁISTE POBAIL NAOMH MHUIRE BUTTEVANT, CO. CORK TO UNVEIL A FOUNDATION STONE FOR THE NEW COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Coláiste Pobail Naomh Mhuire (St Mary’s Community College) opened its doors in 1997 and is run by County Cork VEC.
The College is presently located in premises leased from the Mercy Order. The Mercy Order were providers of post-primary education in Buttevant for over 100 years – from 1879-1997. Closure in 1997 was due to falling enrolment.
There was a big community reaction against the closure, leading to the formation of the ‘Buttevant Education Action Committee’.
This community involvement was one of the factors which led to the VEC opening Coláiste Pobail Naomh Mhuire in September 1997, on a three year trial basis. This decision was vindicated in 1999, when the Department of Education granted permanent recognition to the college as a result of increased enrolment.
Last year, County Cork VEC announced plans for new premises for the Coláiste, which will be located on the Kanturk Road. Work is to commence in 2003.
The Foundation Stone will be transferred to the new site when work begins. Its unveiling in the convent grounds is a symbolic gesture in recognition of the contribution made by the Mercy Sisters to education in Buttevant for so long.
The Coláiste has already made its own mark in terms of broadening educational access. Initiatives since 1997 have included:
- Post Leaving Cert. Courses in Business Studies and Media Studies;
- Numerous night classes
- “Diploma in Computers” course for 10 teachers from North Cork.
The Coláiste has formed a Parents Association and a Student Council.