S N MHUIRE NAOFA
School Details
About
Scoil Mhuire Naofa, Rhode is a Catholic co‑educational primary school serving children from Junior Infants to Sixth Class under the patronage of the Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin. The school delivers the Irish Primary Curriculum with a strong emphasis on holistic development, integrating faith, language, arts and sport. A broad range of extracurricular programmes—including music and choir, gaelbhratach, chess, knitting and crochet—support a vibrant community life and encourage pupils to explore their interests beyond the classroom. The campus comprises seven modern classrooms, a purpose‑built room, a staffroom and a conservatory added in 2004, all set around a well‑maintained playing field. Recent improvements funded by Offaly County Council in 2019 provide a new pedestrian crossing, footpath, parking and set‑down areas, enhancing safety and accessibility. The school also participates in Green Schools and Active School initiatives, promoting environmental awareness and physical wellbeing throughout the school year.
History
Scoil Mhuire Naofa opened in 1959, replacing an earlier building across the road. Initially equipped with four classrooms, two cloakrooms and toilets, the school expanded in the mid‑1970s with two additional classrooms and a purpose room. A further extension in 2006 added a classroom and staffroom, bringing the total to seven classrooms, and a conservatory was constructed at the front of the building in 2004 through Parent Association fundraising. In 2019, Offaly County Council, with Department of Transport funding, provided a new pedestrian crossing, footpath, parking and set‑down areas. The school’s leadership has included Mr Paddy Buckley (1959‑1978), Mr Gerry Reidy (1978‑2004), Mr Declan Downey (2004‑2007) and Mrs Mary Bray (appointed November 2007). Staff numbers have grown from three in 1959 to thirteen, including a teaching principal, class teachers, special education teachers and support assistants.