Primary School

Carnew National School

Arklow, Wicklow
DEIS Mixed

School Details

Address
Carnew, Arklow
Location
Arklow, Wicklow
School Type
Primary
Total Enrollment (2025/26)
185 students
Enrollment Split
78 Girls, 107 Boys
Ethos
Catholic
Irish Classification
No subjects through Irish
Gender
Mixed
Roll Number
18242A
Latest Inspection Reports
View on gov.ie

Location

About

Carnew National School (Scoil Aodán Naofa) is a vibrant, co‑educational primary school that welcomes children of all abilities, irrespective of religious, ethnic or cultural background. The school prides itself on an inclusive ethos, offering a warm and inviting learning environment where pupils are encouraged to explore a variety of teaching methods and engage in fun, hands‑on activities. Its motto, *“Is ualach eadrom foghlaim”* (“learning is a light burden to carry”), reflects a commitment to making education both enjoyable and meaningful. The school has achieved a number of national recognitions, including awards for Discover Primary Science and Maths, the Green Flag environmental award, the Active Schools Award and the GAA School of Excellence Award, and is currently pursuing the Brat Gaelach Irish‑language award. Future development plans feature a state‑of‑the‑art facility designed to support children with autism, underscoring the school’s dedication to specialised provision. As of the 2022/23 academic year, Carnew NS became a rural DEIS school, gaining enhanced government support such as a free lunch scheme. Class groups range from Junior Infants through to Sixth Class, with additional specialised classes such as the “Superhero Class”. The school’s curriculum is complemented by a strong emphasis on extracurricular programmes, environmental stewardship and community involvement, fostering a holistic education that prepares pupils for lifelong learning.