Northern Ireland Education Minister, Paul Givan, has officially opened a new hydrotherapy pool at Fleming Fulton School.

The Minister also hosted Minister for Early Education, Stephen Morgan MP, on a tour of the facilities.

The pool has been redeveloped to allow a range of therapy sessions to be provided for pupils aged 3-19 years to meet their specific needs within the school setting.

The work, designed and constructed by Maurice Flynn & Sons, included a complete retrofit of the pool, reducing the height of the existing walls and installing a new water treatment system and air handling system.

The pool area and facilities were also retrofitted, removing skylights and walls to improve function and thermal properties.

The project was delivered by the Education Authority at an estimated cost of £300,000.

Givan said: “I am pleased to officially open this facility that will enhance the daily lives of all who use it, now and into the future.

“This redeveloped pool will help meet the needs of the children and young people in an environment that is both visually stimulating and calming.”

Fleming Fulton principal, Karen Hancock, added: “Hydrotherapy offers incredible benefits for all children including those with disabilities.

“The buoyancy of the water allows for movements that may not be possible on land, reducing pressure on joints and muscles while encouraging strength and promoting muscle relaxation, flexibility, and co-ordination.

“The benefits of hydrotherapy go far beyond the physical – it builds confidence, fosters independence, and provides moments of fun and freedom that are essential to a child’s emotional wellbeing.

“The hydrotherapy pool is more than just a facility, it represents a step forward in our commitment to ensuring every child, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive, grow, and experience the joys of learning and development in an environment that supports their unique needs.”