Clonmany Mxd National School
School Details
Location
About
Clonmany Mixed National School is a rural, co‑educational primary school situated in the village of Clonmany, County Donegal. The school serves a close‑knit community of approximately 130 pupils and prides itself on a warm, welcoming atmosphere fostered by an active Parents Association, a dedicated Board of Management and strong local involvement. A broad curriculum is delivered within an inclusive ethos, with dedicated support for learners with special educational needs, including autism and additional language support, and a range of extra‑curricular activities that enrich pupil experience. The school moved into a purpose‑built two‑storey facility in August 2009. The modern complex comprises eight classrooms, a learning‑support room, a gym hall, a PE storage area, a resource room, a library, and separate offices for the principal and administration. Outdoor learning spaces, including an outdoor classroom and well‑marked playground, enhance the learning environment. A team of special needs assistants, a classroom assistant and support staff work alongside teachers to ensure personalised learning pathways for all children.
History
The first national school in Clonmany opened in 1836, initially operating separate boys’ and girls’ schools. Early leadership saw a succession of principals, including the Maginnis, Doherty and McCloskey families, and later figures such as Master Maloney and Patrick Kavanagh, who served until 1973. A new school building was erected on the original site in 1924, but quickly proved inadequate, leading to the construction of two three‑room schools opened in 1953. The boys’ and girls’ schools were amalgamated before 1973, after which the school experienced periods of fluctuating enrolment and staff changes. In August 2009 the school relocated to a modern two‑storey building with expanded facilities, and further leadership transitions continued into the 2010s, with a new principal appointed in February 2013.