BISHOP GALVIN NS
School Details
Location
About
Bishop Galvin National School is a Catholic co‑educational primary school situated in the parish of St Jude the Apostle, Willington, Templeogue, serving children from third to sixth class (approximately eight to twelve years old). The school’s ethos is built around the motto “Ní neart go cur le chéile” – strength through togetherness – and it strives to foster a welcoming, inclusive environment where pupils develop academically, socially and spiritually. A strong emphasis is placed on modern learning technologies: every classroom is equipped with interactive whiteboards, a dedicated computer room and iPads are available for collaborative work, supporting a proud tradition in information technology. The school offers a broad range of extracurricular activities. An on‑site art room with a kiln enables pupils to create pottery, and an annual visual‑arts exhibition showcases student work. Whole‑school singing, musical productions, talent shows and a vibrant sporting programme – including successful cross‑country and athletics teams that compete at national venues such as Croke Park and Santry – enrich the pupil experience. With nearly 500 children and a team of 26 teachers, supported by special‑needs assistants and a caretaker, the school provides a well‑resourced setting for holistic development.
History
Bishop Galvin National School opened in 1975 on land granted by the Columban Fathers, named after Bishop Edward Galvin, a missionary priest and co‑founder of the Columban Fathers. The inaugural enrolment was 102 pupils with six teachers, and the first principal was Seán Healy (retired 1994). Subsequent principals were Jimmy O’Dwyer (1994‑2006) and Eamonn Treacy, with Kathryn Corbett appointed in November 2016. By 1979 a second school, Bishop Shanahan N.S., was established to accommodate younger children, while Bishop Galvin N.S. continued to serve third to sixth class. Today the school educates almost 500 pupils with a staff of 26, including mainstream and special‑education teachers, and maintains a strong tradition in technology, the arts and sport.