Knockanillo National School
School Details
Location
About
Knockanillo National School is a mixed Catholic primary school serving junior infants to 6th class in Ballina, Co. Mayo. Operating under the patronage of Archbishop Francis Duffy, the school is part of the DEIS rural initiative, which provides additional resources such as a school meals programme, planning supports and professional development opportunities. The ethos centres on creating a stimulating, safe and inclusive environment where pupils are encouraged, engaged and challenged to become confident, appreciative, independent and creative learners. A broad and balanced curriculum is delivered to help every child achieve their fullest potential. The school benefits from a range of well‑maintained facilities. A thriving school garden showcases native Irish trees such as oak, strawberry tree and mountain ash, alongside three raised beds used for potatoes, onions, scallions and wildflowers, and a garden nursery. Recent building works have added a large general‑purpose classroom and a dedicated staffroom/office, while extra car parking was created in 2017. These physical resources complement the school’s commitment to holistic education and community involvement.
History
The present school building was erected in 1918 after the original school on a different site was destroyed by fire in November 1912. Stones from the original structure were incorporated into the new building, which originally featured two entrance halls, two interconnecting classrooms, a turf shed and dry toilets. Subsequent upgrades included the addition of storage heaters and furniture in the 1970s, the installation of central heating and a new roof in the 1980s‑1990s, a large classroom/general‑purpose room and staffroom extension in 2006, and the development of extra car parking in 2017.