Gortnacart National School
School Details
Location
About
Gortnacart National School is a small, co‑educational Catholic primary school set on an elevated rural site two miles from Ardara village, surrounded by hills and fields. The school provides a well‑ordered, caring and secure environment that nurtures the intellectual, spiritual, physical, moral and cultural development of its pupils. While its ethos is Catholic, the school recognises and respects children of all faiths or none, fostering an inclusive community. The teaching team comprises two mainstream teachers, a learning‑support teacher and a secretary, shared with neighbouring schools, together with a Special Needs Assistant and resource teachers who support individual learning needs. The natural surroundings are incorporated into the curriculum, encouraging outdoor learning and a strong connection with the local environment. The school’s motto, “Déan do dhícheall i gcónaí” (always do your best), underpins its commitment to high standards and personal growth for every child.
History
Gortnacart National School was built in 1909 to replace an earlier school across the road. The land for the new building was donated by Mary and Francis Shovlin, who had recently returned from America. Although the foundations were initially excavated close to the main Ardara‑Glenties road, the school was ultimately erected further back on a small elevated site. Stonemason James Sweeney constructed the building, with voluntary labour supplied by local parents. Since its opening, over 800 children have attended, and the school has been led by a succession of principals, including a Master, Mrs Kathleen O, and Mrs Bríd.