THERE was good news on the education front in the north county last week when County Dublin VEC confirmed to parents that it would apply for patronage of the proposed new Lusk Community College.

Approximately 150 parents attended a meeting in Lusk in support of the college and registered their formal expressions of interest in the new school. The new post-primary school is planned for enrolment in 2013.

The Department of Education and Skills said recently that Lusk was a priority area for a new second-level school. Expressions of interest need to be received by the end of December.

Dr Marie Griffin, chief executive of County Dublin VEC, urged interested parents to express their interest to the VEC and to make their views known within the community.

“Our blueprint for Lusk Community College is based on our depth of experience in establishing and managing state-of-the-art community colleges throughout county Dublin,” said Dr Griffin.

“It’s also based on our Education Plan 2009-13 and our Ten Point Plan for these new schools, the most recent of which has been the opening of Donabate Community College.

“Most importantly, community based school development must centre around the future education needs of our young people.

“Our schools are inclusive, co-educational and multi-denominational and offer a high quality educational experience that reflects modern day needs and changes in society.”

Dr Griffin said County Dublin VEC patronage of Lusk Community College will support and encourage the involvement of parents, teachers, elected representatives and primary school interests as the key influencers of the college’s future ethos and direction. 

“Most importantly, it will equip our young people with the life skills and academic background that they will need for the future,” she added.