At the base of Barrack Hill, facing the Glenhest Road, is the new Holy Family School which was opened in October 1977 to cater for the pupils of the former Convent and Boys Primary Schools. The site was donated by the Sisters of Mercy. The contractor was Bob Loftus and Messrs Taylor and Veale the architects.

The following year, Skirdagh and Derradda Primary Schools were closed, and the teachers and pupils transferred to the new Central School. Mr. Sean Menaghan was the first principal of the new school. He retired in 1984, and was succeeded by Mr. McKeon who is still the principal to this day.

In equipment and design this school is one of the most up to date in the country. It is an eight teacher school, a remedial teacher is also among the staff. In 1984 the Knockloughra school closed and Mrs Eithne Chambers and her pupils were transferred to Newport Central. Since the school opened many activities and competitions have been entered by the pupils. These include boys and girls gaelic football, rounders, tournaments, basketball lessons and many quizzes.

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