Sandford Parish National School
School Details
Location
About
Sandford Parish National School is a co‑educational primary school situated in the historic parish of St Peter, Dublin. It offers a balanced curriculum that follows the Irish Primary School Curriculum while fostering a supportive, inclusive environment rooted in the values of the Church of Ireland tradition. The school places emphasis on developing literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking skills, complemented by a strong programme of creative arts, music and physical education. Modern teaching practices are underpinned by well‑maintained facilities, including a purpose‑built classroom block, a dedicated library, two resource rooms and a spacious staffroom, all designed to enhance learning and cater for a range of pupil needs. The campus has evolved significantly since its original 19th‑century origins. A new building was erected in 1992‑93 and further expanded in 2009, adding two classrooms, additional resource rooms, and upgraded administrative offices. With over 200 children enrolled, staffing levels comply with Department of Education and Skills regulations, ensuring small class sizes and personalised attention. The school’s environment encourages community involvement, parental partnership and the holistic development of each child.
History
Sandford School was built in 1826 in the parish of St Peter, Ranelagh, funded by George Sandford of Somerset. By 1835 the site hosted separate schools for boys, girls and infants, with enrolments peaking at 125 in the 1850s. In 1901 the institution became Sandford Parish National School under the National Board of Education. The 1960s saw an amalgamation with Donnybrook Church of Ireland School, prompting the addition of prefabricated classrooms. A new purpose‑built school was constructed on the original site in 1992‑93, retaining and upgrading the historic hall. Further extensions in 2009 replaced the prefabs with two new classrooms, two resource rooms, a library, and expanded administrative and staff facilities. Today the school serves over 200 pupils.