Rathbarry National School
School Details
Location
About
Rathbarry National School is a small, mixed‑gender primary school situated in a picturesque rural setting on the Wild Atlantic Way, just a short walk from the Long Strand and close to the towns of Clonakilty and Rosscarbery. The school prides itself on providing a caring and nurturing environment where pupils’ spiritual, emotional and physical wellbeing are central to everyday life. A strong emphasis is placed on child‑centred, innovative learning, with active parental involvement and a commitment to developing communication, literacy, numeracy and essential life skills. The curriculum is enriched by a wide range of active programmes, including participation in Science, Maths and Engineers Weeks, Book Week, and a health‑promoting agenda that seeks Active and Green Schools flags. Outdoor and sporting activities such as swimming, football, hurling, tag rugby and orienteering are integral to the school day, while music, dance, drama and visual arts are fostered through regular workshops, visiting artists and school‑wide performances. Facilities support modern learning: two recent classroom extensions (2014 and 2020) provide spacious, well‑equipped rooms fitted with interactive whiteboards, iPads and fibre‑broadband‑connected computers. A dedicated library benefits from fortnightly visits by the Cork County Council library van, and the campus includes a tarmac playground, an all‑weather astro‑turf pitch, and access to swimming lessons at the nearby Celtic Ross Leisure Centre. The school also participates in the Department of Education’s Creative Schools pilot for STEM subjects.
History
Rathbarry National School was built in 1950 to serve the surrounding rural community, providing education for both boys and girls. A new extension was added in 2014, and a further building extension was completed in 2020, expanding the school’s capacity and modernising its facilities. The school currently employs two class teachers, a Special Education Teacher, a part‑time secretary and a part‑time caretaker.