History

The history of education in the Artigarvan area can be traced back as far as 1814. Before Artigarvan Primary School was built, 2 other schools existed in the Artigarvan area.

Leckpatrick School

In 1814 a "Good Slated Building" was erected, and this was to become known as Leckpatrick School. At some stage between 1832 and 1863 the schools name changed to Leckpatrick National School. Later in 1921 the school name changed again under the Department of Education for Northern Ireland. It became known as Leckpatrick Public Elementary School.

An inspectors report about the school, written in 1876 reads "Writing is bad; headlines by teachers are badly formed; idleness and longing to play prevail in this school; the teacher's desk is untidy; grammar and agriculture are very poor."

In 1900, records show there were between 80 - 90 pupils attending Leckpatrick National School. Another inspectors report from 1902 show that standards have been improved at the school. "Needlework, singing and discipline are excellent; basic reading, writing, spelling, grammar and composition are good to very good; the school-room is bright and cheerful and the pupils well trained; the pupils speak politely and on the whole, distinctly, and are attentive and orderly."

Ballylaw School

A survey carried out in 1826 shows the existance of a school at Ballylaw. The building was only a small cabin, and it is not known when it was erected. Little is known about this school as no records are available for Ballylaw School until 1932.

In 1932 a new school was opened at Ballylaw. When the "New School", the principal was Master Charles H Burke. Records of inspectors' and comments from past pupils, paint a picture of a very regimented school, with the principal firmly in control. Pupils remember him as a good teacher, but a quick tempered man. When Master Burke retired the school went through a difficult period. There was no less than 7 changes of teacher in sixteen months.

Artigarvan Primary School

Artigarvan Primary School was constructed in 1971 and officially opened in January 1972 by the Duke of Abercorn. When the new school opened, the schools at Leckpatrick and Ballylaw were closed. A solid education base was set, and inspectors reports confirmed that Artigarvan Primary School had assumed the mantle of eductaion for the area once served by Ballylaw and Leckpatrick.

The school has went from strength to strength, and in 2004 the community nursery moved on to the school grounds. In 2007, it was confirmed a new school would be built, close to its current location, to meet its growing needs.