09-05-2025

Staff and students of Our Lady Star of the Sea Primary School (OLSS) at Cowes celebrated the official Blessing and opening of their new Specialist Learning area.

Father Manny Lomagno - Parish Priest of St Mary’s Parish, Cowes officially blessed the new facilities. He was joined by the Hon. Martin Dixon - Board Director Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited (DOSCEL),  Mr Paul Velten - Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale, Mrs Cathy Blackford - Principal of OLSS, invited guests and friends of the school, parish and the wider community.  The official party unveiled a plaque to commemorate the occasion.

The modular building named, Our Gathering Space serves as a dynamic multi-purpose hub to accommodate specialist learning including art, music/drama/digital technology and science.

Principal Mrs Catherine Blackford said the addition of this dedicated space is a wonderful asset to enhance the educational experiences of students. “It includes two open learning areas, smaller break-out spaces, a kitchenette, and accessible amenities designed to foster creativity and collaborative learning.”

Director of Catholic Education for the Diocese of Sale, Mr Paul Velten, said the project involved relocation and refurbishment of an existing modular building previously used at

St Peter’s College, Clyde North campus.

“The building’s refurbishment and adaptive reuse reflects DOSCEL’s commitment to environmental sustainability, aligning with the Church’s call to Care for Creation.”

“It is wonderful to see this building transformed to suit the specific needs of our Lady Star of the Sea Primary School. These new learning spaces will undoubtedly nurture creativity, engagement, and inclusive education for all students.”

Mr Velten extended gratitude to Crosier Scott Architects for their innovative design and to Kubale Constructions.

The building project which was completed in December 2024 ready for the 2025 new school year was self-funded by the school community.