Gaelscoil Inse Chor
School Details
Location
About
Gaelscoil Inse Chór is a full‑Irish primary school situated in Dublin 8, adjacent to the historic Gairdíní Cuimhneacháin and a short walk from several of Ireland’s most historic sites. The school currently accommodates nine classes with around 240 pupils, delivering the entire curriculum through the Irish language. This immersion approach ensures that every subject – from mathematics to science – is taught in Irish, with the aim that all children leave the school fluent and confident in the language. The school’s ethos places a strong emphasis on the wellbeing of each child, fostering a safe, happy and supportive environment where personal development is prioritised alongside academic achievement. The school’s facilities have developed considerably since its modest beginnings. After several relocations, the purpose‑built campus in Islandbridge was opened in September 1988 and now provides dedicated classrooms, a sports hall and access to a range of extracurricular activities. A vibrant sporting programme includes Gaelic football, soccer, swimming, athletics, and rugby, while the arts are well represented through music (ukulele, guitar, fiddle), dance, visual arts and yoga sessions conducted in Irish. The school also promotes environmental stewardship, identifying itself as a “Scoile Ghlas” (green school) and integrating sustainability themes into its culture.
History
Gaelscoil Inse Chór was established in 1977 following a public meeting in May of that year that resolved to create a full‑Irish primary school in the Inse Chór area. A general election in June 1977 secured a commitment from the Minister for Education, Peadar De Barra, to grant provisional recognition. The school opened on 5 September 1977 with twelve children in the Emmet Road community centre. In 1979 it moved to St Jude’s Parish Hall, and a campaign for a permanent site in the nearby Gairdíní Cuimhneacháin led to protests and political support throughout 1979‑1980. After temporary accommodation at Scoil Choilm on Ard Macha Road, further advocacy resulted in a promise from Minister Éanna Ó Cionnaith in April 1986 to commence construction. The new building in Islandbridge welcomed pupils on 1 September 1988 and was officially opened on 27 September 1988.