Balrothery National School (Oilibhear Naofa)
School Details
Location
About
Balrothery National School (Oilibhear Naofa) is a vibrant primary school situated on Coach Road in Balrothery, Co. Dublin. The school’s ethos centres on fostering a love of learning, respect for diversity and a safe, happy environment where every child can thrive. Working closely with parents, the Board of Management and the Parents’ Association, the school promotes partnership and community involvement, encouraging pupils to develop curiosity, confidence and a strong sense of belonging. The campus now comprises twelve mainstream classrooms and four dedicated special‑education rooms, providing a range of learning spaces that support both whole‑class instruction and individual needs. A well‑equipped sports programme includes football, basketball and athletics, while a rich curriculum of art, quizzes and other creative activities enhances pupils’ cultural development. The school also places a strong emphasis on well‑being, with designated safeguarding contacts and a voluntary contribution scheme that helps fund additional resources, transport and extracurricular workshops.
History
Balrothery National School traces its origins to school records dating back to 1865. Initially the school occupied a secluded 1722 penal‑era church building after the parish church was erected in 1842. The original one‑room school featured a partitioned area for senior classes and alternating desk and form seating. In 1949 a new three‑room building was constructed on a new site and the school was officially named Scoil Oilibheir Beaunaithe. Under the leadership of Principal Joe Madden the school achieved notable academic success, including five County Council scholarships in 1951. Subsequent principals continued to build on this legacy, expanding the facilities from four rooms to the current twelve classrooms and four special‑education rooms, and maintaining strong community links, high academic standards, and achievements in sport, arts and extracurricular competitions.