Donegal Education Support Centre announces relocation to Letterkenny

The Management Committee of the Donegal Education Support Centre (DESC) has announced the centre’s relocation from Donegal Town to Glenview Business Park, Letterkenny. 

This strategic move - scheduled this coming Spring - marks a significant milestone in the centre's ongoing commitment to supporting educators across the county. Following extensive consultation and collaboration with school leaders, teachers, staff and other stakeholders, the Management Committee made the decision to establish a more centralised and accessible hub for educational development in Donegal. 

The move will enhance DESC's capacity to provide high-quality professional training and support to principals, teachers, and special needs assistants (SNAs) in Donegal. With 178 primary schools, 28 post-primary schools, and two special schools in the county, this move is designed to meet the evolving needs of the educational community while fostering accessibility, deeper engagement and collaboration with local schools and other educational bodies.

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Mr. Martin Gallagher, Chairperson of the Management Committee, expressed gratitude to the Department of Education, stating: “We are sincerely thankful to the Department of Education for their support for the relocation. This move marks an exciting new chapter for the Donegal Education Support Centre as we continue to support the professional learning of all educators across the county.”

Educators across Donegal have welcomed the decision. Ms Alma Curran, Principal of Scoil Mhuire gan Smál, Letterkenny and with 16 years’ experience as principal, welcomed the decision, saying: “Teachers in Donegal have a long-standing commitment to professional learning. This modern, central facility will further strengthen and facilitate that commitment.” 

Deputy Principal of Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana, Ms Laura Corbett, also voiced her support and said: “As a school participating in the TL21 (Teaching and Learning for the 21st Century) programme, I am keenly aware of the importance of accessible, high-quality professional development opportunities. This move will make a significant difference to teachers across the county.”

The Education Support Centres Ireland (ESCI) network has also expressed its full support, recognising the strategic value of the new location. They said: “By moving to a modern, centralised facility, the Donegal Education Support Centre will strengthen its role as a cornerstone for professional development throughout the county”. 

DESC said: “This move signals a new phase for the Donegal Education Support Centre, ensuring its ability to meet the evolving needs of Donegal’s educational community while continuing to uphold its mission of professional excellence and innovation. As Spring approaches, the Management Committee looks forward to welcoming educators, stakeholders, and partners to the new Centre as we embark on this exciting new journey together.”