Ballinlough NS
School Details
Location
About
Ballinlough National School is a mixed Catholic primary school located in the village of Ballinlough on the outskirts of Kells, County Meath. The school caters for children from Junior Infants through to Sixth Class and provides a welcoming, community‑focused environment where pupils are encouraged to develop academically, physically, socially, spiritually, morally and emotionally. Its vision is to create a caring atmosphere in which every child feels happy, confident and motivated to achieve their full potential, with a strong emphasis on inclusiveness, individuality and the nurturing of diverse talents. The curriculum is delivered through a balanced programme that combines traditional academic subjects with a wide range of extracurricular activities, including an autism unit and various arts projects. High expectations for behaviour, work ethic and personal achievement are underpinned by a culture of mutual respect. The school benefits from active partnerships with a vibrant Parents’ Association, a dedicated Board of Management and a supportive patron, all of which contribute to a rich educational experience and a strong sense of community belonging.
History
The school originated in a modest building adjacent to the local Catholic church, a structure now serving as a community centre. Although the exact details of its founding in 1850 are not fully documented, a partial list of headmasters is recorded: Thomas P. Harman (1889‑1893), John Geraghty (1894‑1896), James P. Ward (1897‑1902), Master Ward (‑1925), Master Patrick McDonnell (1925‑1958), Master Vincent Geraghty (1958‑1988) – during whose tenure the school moved to its present site in 1972 – followed by Masters Patrick Marrinan, Margaret Ryan, Goretti Usher and the current principal. The school has evolved from a two‑teacher operation to a modern primary school with a range of facilities and dedicated staff.