Killyon National School
School Details
Location
About
Killyon National School is a small, rural primary school situated in South Meath between Ballivor and Longwood, operating under the patronage of the Diocese of Meath. The school prides itself on fostering a strong sense of belonging, care and opportunity within the local community. Every pupil is known individually and supported to develop academically, socially and emotionally in a calm, welcoming environment where safety, respect and encouragement are paramount. The educational approach is broad and creative, encouraging children to build on their strengths and gain confidence through a balanced programme of literacy, numeracy, arts, sport and environmental learning. Recent extensions have provided two bright, spacious classrooms, a purpose‑built room, staff facilities and a modern office, while earlier improvements added a toilet block, central heating and additional teaching spaces. The school’s garden and green‑school initiatives further enrich the curriculum, offering hands‑on experiences that link classroom learning with the natural world.
History
Education in Killyon began with 19th‑century hedge schools, notably the Blackshade school where Irish, Latin and other subjects were taught. In 1853 the community built Killyon Old School from stone sourced at Clogherinkoe Quarry, replacing the hedge school and operating until 1916. On 1 May 1916 Killyon National School opened in a new two‑roomed building, with Mrs Bridget Fehily appointed as principal. A third classroom was added in 1930, followed by a toilet block and oil‑fired heating in 1965. Significant expansion in 1975 introduced further classrooms, a purpose room, staff room and office, and a 2016 extension added two large, bright classrooms. The school has been led by only three principals: Mrs Fehily (retired 1957), Mr William Fennessy (served until 1996), Mrs Jane Burke (served until August 2023), and the current principal, Mr Nigel Boardman, who began in January 2024.