Cloontagh Mixed National School
School Details
Location
About
Cloontagh Mixed National School is a small, two‑teacher rural primary school situated in Killashee Parish, operating under a Catholic ethos and the patronage of the local bishop. The school prides itself on small class groupings that allow personalised attention, fostering each child’s spiritual, emotional, academic and physical development in line with its holistic mission statement. A strong emphasis is placed on dignity, mutual respect and self‑directed learning, encouraging pupils to become confident, lifelong learners. The learning environment is well‑resourced, with up‑to‑date ICT facilities and a range of subject‑specific materials. Recent enhancements include a prefabricated classroom with modern toilets, a well‑equipped yard featuring basketball hoops, a climbing frame, soft‑play area and vegetable beds beneath an oak tree. A vibrant Parents’ Association and an active Board of Management support extra‑curricular activities and school initiatives, while a pupil committee ensures that student voices are heard in daily school life.
History
The original Cloontaghmore school was erected in 1833 by Thomas Clarke Builders on land donated by the McGaver family, comprising a two‑storey building with separate classrooms for girls (first floor) and boys (ground floor) heated by stoves. The present Cloontaghmore National School was constructed in 1895 with two classrooms, celebrating its centenary in 1995; it was built by McNallys of Killoe. Extensions in 1964 added cloakrooms and toilets, and a prefabricated classroom with additional facilities was added in 2003. Recent years have seen further yard improvements, including sports equipment, a climbing frame, soft‑play area and vegetable beds, reflecting the school’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the learning environment.