The new Bishop of Derry has supported a cross-community campaign against the closure of an under threat Catholic primary school. 

Rt Rev Michael Router, Bishop of Derry, paid a visit to pupils, staff and family at St Columba’s Primary School in Newbuildings, three miles south of Londonderry, Northern Ireland on Tuesday 27 October. 

The school, which is in a predominantly Protestant village, has received a swathe of support fighting the closure of the school in August 2027.

Nearly 5,000 people have signed a petition opposing the planned closure, with campaigners highlighting support they have received from Protestant neighbours and local churches. 

Just over a month into office, Bishop Router said he’s impressed by the level of support for the school and “the continuation of Catholic education within the village.”

“It is clear that the students and their parents love St Columba’s and would be very saddened to see it close,” he said. 

The Churches Trust have supported the school, as have political figures including SDLP MP Colum Eastwood, DUP MLA Julie Middleton and Sinn Fein Mayor of Derry City Grace Uí Niallais. 

Principal Tina Lyons added that cross-community support from the Protestant community to save the 71-year-old school has been significant. 

“We have been overwhelmed by the support from across Newbuildings, particularly from our Protestant neighbours, who have stood alongside us throughout this campaign.

“We all want excellent education for our children, and we can work together to protect parental choice.”

She added that the school’s approach stretched outside the classroom, helping children develop faith and learn to respect those from other backgrounds. 

Significant residential development has been approved in and around Newbuildings, adding another chapter when considering the future of St Columba’s. 

A new Religious Education curriculum in Northern Ireland, published this year, kept Christianity at the heart of teaching.