Down High new building officially opens

DOWN High School officially celebrated the opening of its magnificent new school building at a special ceremony on Friday where HM Lord-Lieutenant for Co Down, Gawn Rowan-Hamilton, representing His Royal Highness the King, declared the facility open in the presence of the Minister for Education, Paul Givan.

The formal event marks the completion of a major milestone for the school community, following its relocation to the purpose-built site.

The state-of-the-art campus represents a significant investment in the future of local education, boasting cutting-edge facilities designed to enhance both academic excellence and pupil wellbeing.

The new-build project first received outline planning approval in 2009 and in November 2022 the formal sod-cutting ceremony confirmed the official beginning towards the new build.

However, the journey to the new building brought with it a profound connection to local history.

Prior to construction, an extensive archaeological dig took place as a famine graveyard was discovered on site.

This historic excavation proved to be one of the largest archaeological digs of its kind in Northern Ireland.

While an amazing discovery, it was one that required the utmost sensitivity, respect, and care from the school and contractors throughout the transition process.

Therefore, it was in February 2023 that the construction of the new build officially began, with the school move taking place in June 2025.

The first pupils were welcomed to the new site in September 2025.

Principal of Down High, Mrs Maud Perry, heralded the state-of-the-art building as a campus that will provide an ‘exceptional learning environment designed to support excellence in education, pupil wellbeing and environmental sustainability’.

The principal explained the local school is also equipped with outstanding resources to enhance classroom teaching, with ‘every classroom equipped with advanced interactive panel technology’.

“Pupil wellbeing has been at the heart of every design decision,” Mrs Perry said.

“A bright and welcoming dining hall, complemented by attractive outdoor seating areas, provides an inviting social space for pupils.

“Rather than a traditional school bell, short excerpts of classical music signal lesson transitions, creating a calm and purposeful atmosphere throughout the school day, while gentle background music in toilet areas helps foster a respectful and relaxing environment.

“Two dedicated multisensory wellbeing hubs also provide safe, supportive spaces where pupils can regulate, reflect and access additional wellbeing support when required.”

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