Holycross N.S Firoda.
School Details
Location
About
Holycross National School, Firoda, is a vibrant rural primary school serving the north Kilkenny community. The school prides itself on a lively, inclusive ethos and has recently achieved both an Active Flag (2023) and an Amber Flag (2024), reflecting its commitment to health, safety and environmental standards. A broad curriculum is delivered within a modern learning environment that balances traditional teaching with contemporary resources, including a state‑of‑the‑art multimedia computer laboratory. The campus benefits from extensive facilities: a purpose‑built sports hall, expanded playing fields, dedicated play areas and a ball‑court, as well as a series of recent classroom extensions that provide spacious, well‑equipped learning spaces linked by an open central area. Continuous investment in infrastructure – such as new windows, doors, plumbing and electrics – ensures a comfortable and safe setting for pupils to explore, create and develop confidence in preparation for lifelong learning.
History
Holy Cross Mixed National School, commonly known as Firoda N.S., was erected in 1962 in the townland of Skehana, near the Laois border between Castlecomer and Ballinakill, replacing the original school situated in the neighbouring townland of Firoda. The name “Firoda” derives from the historic Barony of Uí Duach, the early nucleus of Ossory. In 1989 a major redevelopment added a sports hall, expanded playing fields, new play areas, a ball‑court, and upgraded windows, doors, plumbing and electrics, made possible by strong parental and community support, notably the land donation from Alice and Mick Kennedy. Subsequent enhancements include a multimedia computer laboratory, a 2005 overhaul that introduced two new classrooms and an open linking area, and a further classroom added in 2012/13 to accommodate additional staff, with official openings attended by Minister Mary Hanafin and local benefactors.