Parish Proposal FAQ's

To secure the future of the school and to cater for the increased numbers, the school seeks agreement from the Parish to acquire the Parochial Hall and for this to be included in any proposed scheme to expand the school. This may include transforming the Parochial Hall into a modern, multipurpose sports and community facility. The upgraded space would be managed and maintained by the school, with a commitment to ensuring that both the Parish and the wider local community has full and ongoing access to the facility as usual.

Please read the FAQ's below:

Why does the school need more space?

Roan St Patrick’s has had an increasing enrolment over the last 15 years and is climbing over 190 as it currently stands. The current school facilities are built to accommodate 83 pupils and the school now has an official enrolment number of 154 with 190 children actually attending from 1st September 2025.

Are there not enough classrooms in the school as it currently stands?

The school is using all spaces it has available, including the dinner hall which is divided into 2 teaching spaces.  These spaces are under current regulation size of 60m2.

What are the proposals for the school?

Over the last few years, the school has been applying for temporary variations to its enrolment number which was officially 83. Due to the normalisation process from the Department of Education the enrolment figure now stands at 154.  This has triggered an entitlement for the potential funding of more teaching spaces, toileting and a multipurpose hall (160m2).

What will happen to the car park at the front of the Parochial Hall?

If the proposal is to proceed it would be probable that the car park would become playground space.  Car parking for any event in the hall would be available in the existing school car park that has 50 spaces.  Access would be available from the car park to any part of the school including the hall. The car park would also be used for all community groups using the hall (eg Youth Club in the evenings).

Who will own the Parochial Hall?

It is yet to be determined how this would work, acquisition either from a long-term lease arrangement or purchase.  Under any new arrangement, all associated running costs including light, heat and maintenance would rest with the school.

Can the school not just get a new build?

As there are parts of the school that are relatively new the school wouldn’t be eligible for funding for a new school due to costs and existing suitable provision. 

If I want to hire or use the hall for a private function as a group eg, Christmas wreath making event, can I do so?

Yes, this would be done by making a request for a booking as per previous arrangements with the Parish.

Will I be able to hire the hall for events during the school day?

Yes, provided there is no conflict with any other group.

Will there still be a Youth Club?

This would continue as per normal arrangements.

Can the hall not just be knocked down and rebuilt?

The cost of such a project would far outweigh the refurbishment of the hall and may not be considered by DE.

Could the hall not just stay the same as it is and let the school use it as it exists?

Any new school provision would include the refurbishment of the hall to bring it up to spec and to make it more energy efficient. Along with additional classroom provision, it would be part of the Department's plan that any hall, new or existing, would be integrated into the school as part of the school estate and access to and from the hall to the school would be covered.

Who would pay for the upkeep, heat, light and maintenance of any new hall?

The school would cover these costs.

If the proposal was to proceed how long will it take?

This is difficult to ascertain but we would estimate 3-5 years

How do I voice my support, opinions or concerns relating to this proposal?

By completing the consultation questionnaire online or on paper.  The questionnaire can be accessed here https://forms.gle/1UNEhvzr4C43NbmD8 or paper copies are available from the chapel.