Killen Primary School celebrates 90 years at the heart of the community

KILLEN Primary School is proudly celebrating its 90th anniversary this year, marking nine decades of education and deep-rooted community spirit in the Killen area.

Principal Charlene Goan said the milestone offers an opportunity not only to reflect on the school’s long history, but also to celebrate its continued growth and the role it plays in the lives of families across Killen and the surrounding districts.

The origins of Killen Primary School date back to 1930, following an inspection of education provision in the area. At that time, two small rural primary schools, Aughnahoo and Ganvaughan, served local children. As a result of the inspection, it was decided that both schools would close and a new, central primary school would be built in Killen.

In May 1932, a meeting was held with parents from both schools, where it was agreed that the new school should be established in Killen to serve the wider community. The site for the building was purchased at a cost of £180, with construction costing £2,200. The school officially opened its doors on May 1, 1936, with 97 pupils enrolled.

The original building consisted of two classrooms, an outdoor flush toilet block, a play shed, a cloakroom with a washhand basin and a small room used for cookery. Robert Kelly was appointed as the school’s first principal.

For several decades, the school remained largely unchanged. However, in the 1970s, an extension was added to modernise the building and allow Killen Primary School to operate as a three-teacher school. At times, when space was limited, the nearby Orange Hall was also used to accommodate pupils, as mobile classrooms were not available during that period.

Further developments during the 1970s included the demolition of the outdoor toilet block and the construction of a new facilities block. A hall, kitchen and staffroom were also added, reflecting changing educational needs and improved standards.

Like many rural schools, Killen Primary School faced challenges in the 1990s as pupil numbers declined. Enrolment dropped to just 36 pupils during that period. David Crawford served as principal at the time, supported by Ivan Clarke as Chair of Governors. The school kitchen was closed and meals were instead provided by Castlederg High School.

Despite these challenges, strong leadership and community support ensured the school continued to move forward. Efforts were made to promote Killen Primary School, and gradually enrolment numbers began to rise again.

A significant milestone in the school’s history came in 2008 with the construction of an entirely new school building. The old premises were demolished and replaced with a modern, purpose-built school, officially opened on June 11, 2008 by Ivan Sproule, a parent of the school.

The new building transformed the school, providing five classrooms equipped with interactive whiteboards, a much larger playground, extensive playing fields and a spacious car park, a major improvement on the limited parking available at the old site.

“The school simply needed to be replaced,” said Mrs Goan. “The new building gave us a far more modern learning environment and facilities that allow us to meet the needs of today’s pupils.”

Mrs Goan herself has been part of the Killen Primary School community for 20 years. After graduating from university, she spent a year teaching at Omagh Integrated Primary School before coming to Killen to cover a maternity post. She later worked in Irvinestown on another maternity cover, before returning permanently to Killen Primary School.

Following the retirement of David Crawford, Mrs Goan was appointed principal in January 2021.

Today, Killen Primary School is thriving, with enrolment standing at 145 pupils, the highest in its history. The school now has five teachers and continues to attract pupils not only from Killen, but from surrounding areas where it is the closest primary school.

“We are an inclusive school, and children settle in well,” Mrs Goan said. “Our classrooms are busy and we place a strong emphasis on wellbeing.”

She added that Killen Primary School prides itself on nurturing each child’s individuality, celebrating achievements and building strong partnerships with parents through open communication.

The school also places significant value on outdoor learning. Pupils benefit from an outdoor classroom and learning spaces that enhance their educational experience and support hands-on, active learning.

Community involvement remains central to life at Killen Primary School. Generations of families have attended the school, and past pupils regularly return to support events or visit staff.

“Our former pupils always come back in, especially when we are fundraising,” Mrs Goan said. “People often comment on the friendly atmosphere here, it’s something we are very proud of.”

Mrs Goan paid tribute to long-standing supporters of the school, including Eleanor Spear, who owened the post office, and Marion Young, who passed away last year.

“They supported every event we held, helped with teas and knew the school's history. They were involved with the school for many years and were a huge part of our community.”

Throughout the year, Killen Primary School hosts well-supported events such as Christmas shows, a family barbecue fun night each June and other celebrations, including jubilees. Fundraising remains a key part of school life, supporting the PTA, parents’ chosen charities and organisations such as the Gemma McHale Foundation, which provides counselling support to pupils.

Looking ahead, Mrs Goan said the school hopes to continue to thrive and serve the community for many years to come.

“We are incredibly proud of our past, our growth and our reputation,” she said. “After 90 years, Killen Primary School remains an important part of the community, and we look forward to the future.”

To mark the 90th anniversary, the school will host a special open day on Friday, March 13, from 2pm to 5pm. The celebration will include tea, memorabilia displays, entertainment and guest speakers, and all past pupils, families and community members are warmly invited to attend.