Knockbridge National School
School Details
Location
About
St. Mary’s National School, Knockbridge is a co‑educational primary school serving a vibrant community of approximately 307 pupils in a rural setting just over three miles south of Dundalk. The school prides itself on fostering a positive behaviour culture alongside strong academic and extra‑curricular achievement, offering a balanced programme that encourages curiosity, creativity and personal development. Modern teaching spaces, including a purpose‑built hall, a dedicated PC laboratory and specialist SET (Special Educational Needs) rooms, support a wide range of learning experiences for all abilities. Over the past decade the school has undertaken extensive building projects to accommodate its growing enrolment. Recent enhancements comprise new classrooms, a disabled‑access toilet, a landscaped car park, an ornate perimeter railing and extensive front‑ and rear‑yard landscaping, all contributing to a safe, welcoming and environmentally conscious campus. The school’s “Green School” ethos underpins its commitment to sustainability, while a robust set of policies—including an up‑to‑date admission notice and policy—ensure transparent governance and a supportive learning environment for families.
History
St. Mary’s National School, Knockbridge, a co‑educational primary school with 307 pupils, is situated in the historic village of Knockbridge, an area rich in local legend. In the late 1960s, Kilcroney National School closed and amalgamated with Knockbridge NS. The present school building opened in 1969 adjacent to the original structure, which now serves as a community centre and creche. An extension added two classrooms, a general purpose room, staff room and office in 1999. Further development in 2006 secured four additional classrooms, a new entrance and extensive modifications, completed in September 2008, together with a new rear car park and landscaping. In 2010 the school constructed a new hall and PC lab, officially opened in December 2011, representing an investment of over €1.3 million. A decorative perimeter railing was installed in 2016, and in 2019 an extra classroom, three SET rooms, a disabled toilet and storage facilities were added.