IT was a case of new year, new beginning for Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh on Clare Street as Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board (LCETB) marked the commencement of the multi-million euro development of the new school campus.
The new 8,000m² building to accommodate 750 students involves an investment of more than €20 million at the former Kerry Group site on Clare Street.
Construction, which is now under way, is scheduled for completion in 2023.
“The modern architectural design of the new school will provide a fitting backdrop to the excellent educational reputation that the Gaelcholáiste has earned,” said LCETB Chief Executive, George O’Callaghan.
Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh is an All-Irish co-educational secondary college where all subjects are taught through the medium of Irish. Its current enrolment is 680 students and it is an inclusive, modern and dynamic school with a clear emphasis on creativity and innovation, with technology a central theme of its teaching and learning environment.
The Limerick City school was recognised as the first Apple Distinguished School in Ireland and is regarded as a centre of leadership and educational excellence with a clear vision for how technology-rich environments support learning. Physical Education and sports also play a pivotal role in Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh with many talented athletes like Irish Paralympian Swimmer Róisín Ní Riain, attending the school.
The campus will comprise seventy teaching spaces including five Science Laboratories, two Home Economics Rooms, Art and Textiles Rooms, Technical Graphics, Construction Studies, Engineering and Multimedia Rooms, together with a PE Hall, General Classrooms, Staff Room and a range of External Play Areas, Ancillary and Support Facilities.
Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh Principal Kevin Ó Raghallaigh, said: “Today is a fantastic day for the school. The location of the new campus has been very warmly welcomed by parents and students given its proximity to the current school location, in one of the oldest parts of Limerick City.
The main contractor for the project is Limerick company, Conack Construction. The design team is headed up Thompson Architects and includes Rogerson Reddan, Downes & Associates, Don O’Malley & Partners and Integrated Risk Solutions.
