Rathfarnham Educate Together
School Details
Location
About
Rathfarnham Educate Together (RETNS) is a state‑funded, co‑educational primary school that follows the four core principles of the Educate Together ethos – child‑centred, democratic, equality‑based and inclusive. The school provides a nurturing environment where every child is encouraged to develop academically, socially and emotionally, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking, creativity and ethical learning through the Learn Together Ethical Programme. The campus benefits from high‑speed broadband supplied under the Department of Education’s School Broadband Programme, supporting a modern digital learning environment. A major refurbishment in 2008 added four new classrooms, and the school’s active “Green Team” has earned a ninth green flag, reflecting its commitment to sustainability. A range of extracurricular activities – from spring art projects and wormery updates to national choir participation and maths quizzes – enrich the pupil experience and promote community spirit.
History
The school opened in 1990 as the South City School Project with 39 children in six classes, initially housed in St Mary’s Church of Ireland School, Crumlin. After a fire in March 1993, the school relocated to Rathfarnham in September 1993 and was renamed Rathfarnham Educate Together (RETNS) in 2001. Significant milestones include a 2008 refurbishment adding four classrooms, a succession of principals (Paddie Murphy, Sinead Watson, Mary Carron, Maeve McCarthy), a 30‑year celebration and a Digital School of Distinction award, and successful navigation of the COVID‑19 pandemic.