Welcome to our School

Thank you for visiting the Downshire Primary School website. I am delighted to welcome you to our school community.

Our school opened on 1st September 2005, replacing the former Hillsborough and Newport Primary Schools, and has gone from strength to strength ever since. Situated on the edge of the picturesque and historic village of Hillsborough, we are fortunate to enjoy easy access to the forest and castle, which enrich the learning experiences we provide for our children.

Downshire Primary School sits within the growing Hillsborough area, which has seen a significant increase in population in recent years. We have greatly benefited from and warmly welcomed families from across Northern Ireland, the wider United Kingdom and Ireland, and from many parts of the world. This diversity enriches our school community and reflects the inclusive ethos we are proud to uphold.

 
 
 

Latest News & Updates

Instagram posts from @downshire_primary
‘Mr Poots Our Hero’ 🎶
Last week we held a special assembly to say goodbye to Mr Poots and celebrate his time at Downshire! We performed a song written especially for him by Miss Brown and her team of singers! We were delighted to be able to present him with a beautiful piece of artwork from the pupils, staff, Governors and parents by Rachel Julca Designs which captured all things Royal Hillsborough. We wish Mr Poots a happy and healthy retirement and thank him for all his passion, dedication and kindness to the whole school community!
COLOUR RUN 2026! 🎨🌈
 
 

Friday Note

 
 

Upcoming Events...

Aug
26
Autumn Term Commences
Aug
31
Bank Holiday
Sep
25
Staff Development Day - School Closed
Oct
26
Half Term Holiday
Oct
27
Half Term Holiday
Oct
28
Half Term Holiday
Oct
29
Half Term Holiday
Oct
30
Half Term Holiday
 
 
 

House System

Term 3

Hill
Hill
7
Gray
Gray
5
Ferguson
Ferguson
3
Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald
2
 
 
 

Quick links

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Key information