Scoil Barra Naofa Monkstown
School Details
Location
About
Scoil Barra Naofa is a Catholic primary school serving both boys and girls in Monkstown, County Cork. The school delivers a comprehensive, inclusive curriculum that aims to develop pupils spiritually, socially, morally, physically and academically. Emphasis is placed on a student‑centred learning environment that is free from discrimination, bullying and harassment, fostering respect, truth, freedom, justice and understanding for all. The campus is set on attractive, landscaped grounds overlooking Cork Harbour and comprises a split‑level building that incorporates the original three‑classroom block (opened 1943) and a 1986 extension. Facilities include eight modern classrooms equipped with interactive whiteboards, three special‑education rooms, a fully refurbished library, a multi‑functional hall, a well‑stocked computer room with desktops, laptops and an iPad trolley, and dedicated toilet facilities for each classroom and for disabled users. Outdoor provision features three yards, a basketball court and access to a local park and golf club for sports activities. A strong sense of community underpins the school ethos, encouraging co‑operation among staff, pupils and parents. The school’s programmes promote social inclusion, cohesion and a happy learning atmosphere, supported by a range of initiatives such as wellbeing, green‑school projects and a student council.
History
The present school on Ash Wednesday 1943 replaced an earlier National School on Chapel Hill (opened 1865, closed 1943). Prior to that, a private primary school operated at 1 de Vesci Place, taught by Mercy Order nuns. The old Chapel Hill school, once separated by gender and accessed via a stone drawbridge, fell into disuse until Fr. Christy Walsh restored it in 1982 for community use. In December 1938 Fr. O’ Regan purchased the current site as a parish gift. The original school records date back to 1872. An extension was completed in 1986 under the principalship of Mr. Michael O Sullivan and officially opened by Mr. Micheál Martin in 2000. enrolment has grown from 68 pupils in the early years to 197 pupils and a staff of 12 today.