Ratoath Junior National School
School Details
Location
About
Ratoath Junior National School is a Catholic, co‑educational junior primary school serving children from Junior Infants to 2nd class in Ratoath, Co. Meath. The school’s ethos is rooted in Gospel values, aiming to nurture the intellectual, physical, cultural, moral and spiritual development of each pupil. A strong emphasis is placed on inclusive, engaging classrooms where children are encouraged to take pride in their work, develop a love of learning and grow within the Catholic faith. The curriculum follows the NCCA Primary School Curriculum, delivering instruction across six learning areas—including English, Gaeilge, Mathematics, Science, the Arts and Physical Education—while preparing for upcoming reforms such as the New Maths Curriculum. The school benefits from modern facilities, including a ten‑classroom extension completed in 2010 and a dedicated autism class opened in September 2023. Daily “Active Breaks Every Day” promote health and concentration, and the school maintains clear health and safety policies, such as a nut‑ and kiwi‑free environment, a ban on smart watches, and specific rules for cyclists and e‑scooters on the premises. Regular communication with families is provided through a paperless weekly newsletter and an up‑to‑date school calendar, reinforcing the partnership between home and school.
History
Ratoath Mixed National School has occupied its present site on Fairyhouse Road since 1911. In response to a significant rise in pupil numbers, the school was divided on 1 September 2005 into Ratoath Junior National School and Ratoath Senior National School, the latter occupying a two‑storey building on the same campus. A ten‑classroom extension to the junior school was completed in 2010, and in September 2023 the school opened its first dedicated autism class.