School group Educate Together has been formally recognised by the Education Minister as a second-level patron, which gives it the green light to develop new secondary schools in Ireland.

Ruairi Quinn confirmed that the organisation has met all the government's requirements to operate as a patron of secondary schools and praised the group for its work with its existing primary education facilities.

"You have shown great leadership in creating and sustaining a national network of primary schools," he told the group's annual general meeting, adding that he has long been a supporter of the organisation's involvement at this level.

Educate Together's chief executive Paul Rowe welcomed the announcement, stating it is an "important landmark" for the group and a vindication of the huge efforts parents around the country have made to support their campaign to open second-level schools.

Currently, the organisation runs 58 multi-denominational primary schools, with over 12,600 pupils and 1,000 staff members.

Mr Rowe added that the group had proved its credentials at this level and has strong support for undertaking the challenge of taking the next step to second-level education.

Written by Donal Walsh
 

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