S N NAOMH MHUIRE
School Details
About
St Mary’s National School, Saggart is a co‑educational primary school serving the local parish community. The school operates across 24 classrooms, including four specialised “Lighthouse” classes that provide enhanced support for pupils with additional needs. Teaching hours run from 8.50 am to 2.30 pm for 1st‑6th classes, with slightly later start and finish times for the Junior and Senior Infants and the Lighthouse provision, reflecting a flexible approach to pupil wellbeing. The school’s ethos is rooted in its Catholic patronage, seeking to nurture faith through religious education and preparation for the sacraments while also embracing a broad, balanced curriculum that promotes creativity, critical thinking and active learning. A strong partnership with parents and the wider community underpins a welcoming, inclusive environment that respects diversity of race, culture, religion, gender and ability. Emphasis is placed on a safe, secure and attractive learning setting where children are encouraged to reach their full potential and contribute positively to the school community. Facilities include modern classroom spaces, dedicated areas for specialist support, and resources that enable a variety of project‑based and experiential learning activities, as reflected in recent classwork ranging from dance workshops to international studies. The school’s commitment to openness, tolerance and continuous improvement is evident in its ongoing engagement with parents and community partners.
History
The school opened its doors on 1 September 2014 as a new 24‑classroom National School in the village of Saggart. Since its foundation, St Mary’s has grown in enrolment while maintaining the close‑knit, community‑focused character of a small village school. The school continues to build on its original mission of providing a warm, inclusive environment that values both academic achievement and the development of Gospel values.