Inver NS
School Details
Location
About
Inver National School is a rural, co‑educational primary school located about 11 km from Donegal Town, just off the N56 near the village of Inver. Set within a tranquil countryside setting and within walking distance of Inver beach, the school makes use of its natural surroundings as an extended learning environment, enriching the curriculum with outdoor and experiential activities. The school operates under the patronage of the Church of Ireland Bishop of Derry and Raphoe and delivers Religious Education in line with the doctrines and traditions of the Church, while welcoming children of all faiths and none. A relaxed, caring atmosphere encourages a strong sense of belonging, and pupils are supported to progress at their own pace, aiming to reach their full potential in a nurturing community. The daily timetable runs from 9.00 am to 2.50 pm, with a short morning break and a half‑hour lunch period; infant classes finish at 2.00 pm. The school’s emphasis on personalised learning, community involvement and the use of local natural resources defines its distinctive educational approach.
History
In the 1800s several privately funded schools operated in the Parish of Inver, but many closed or moved. After the closure of Drumduff School in 1890 and a threatened closure of Drumfin School, Rev. A. Tydd, Rector of Inver, initiated the building of a central school near Inver Bridge. A site was donated by local landlord William Sinclair of Bonnyglen, with plans drawn by County Surveyor M. Steadman. Local tradition credits Mrs Montgomery Stewart of Drumbeg House with influencing the front‑face design. Construction was contracted to James McClay of Strabane at a cost of £350. The school opened on 10 January 1910 and entered the National School System in 1914. Subsequent amalgamations, such as that of Gortward School, expanded its catchment.