History of the School

Castlederg High School was opened on 2nd September 1958 with 289 pupils and 13 teachers under the principalship of Mr Jack Blair.  Growing numbers and increased educational needs brought the first expansion of the school in 1973 when new classrooms and a school dining hall were added.  Mr John Dunbar succeeded Mr Blair in 1980 and during the next twelve years continued to guide the school through a period of academic consolidation.  Following Mr Dunbar’s retirement in 1992, the school welcomed Mr McSparron as its new Principal in January 1993.

Between 1991 and 1994 the school was completely refurbished and new classrooms, three laboratories, a Sports Hall and Youth Wing were added.  The new facilities were officially opened in September 1994 by HRH The Duke of Kent.

Mr McSparron retired in the summer of 2000 and former Vice Principal and Head of the Maths Department, Mr Williamson, was appointed Principal.  Mrs Moore, former Head of English, was appointed Vice Principal in the same year.  In November 2005 the school appointed a second Vice Principal, Mrs McKelvey. Since his appointment, Mr Williamson has placed great importance on relationships between staff, pupils and parents especially with regard to their expectations and sense of community within the school.  A Student Council has been established and a new school uniform introduced to promote confidence and the self esteem of the pupils.  A trained counsellor provides a confidential service to those pupils requiring individual support.

The last ten years have seen continued growth in the number of pupils, teachers, learning support assistants, buildings and resources within the school.

There have been numerous recent improvements to the school fabric and departments within the school.  Information and Communications Technology resources have been increased with a third classroom being fully equipped with a suite of new computers.  These new resources, along with access to the Internet, enable pupils to avail of the latest technology.

The school has recently acquired a new Music Suite complete with its own recording studio and installed the most up-to-date public address and screens system in the assembly hall.  In January 2001 a new entrance was created, incorporating a new reception area, office and parents’ room.  Increasing numbers in the Sixth Form have resulted in better provision with regard to academic and/or vocational choice.  New Sixth Form facilities for study and recreation have recently been developed.  The Principal pursues every avenue to acquire funding in order to enhance the facilities available with major improvements completed in Technology & Design, Music and PE.

New strategies and innovations, coupled with sound teaching practices will continue to be at the forefront of Castlederg High School.