Scoil Chuimín & Caitríona
School Details
About
Scoil Chuimín & Caitríona is a Roman Catholic primary school situated in Uachtar Árd, Oughterard. The school’s mission is to promote the full and harmonious development of each pupil – intellectually, physically, culturally, morally and spiritually – within a living relationship with God and the wider community. While the Catholic ethos underpins everyday life, the school welcomes children of all faiths and fosters a culture of respect, kindness and responsibility. A broad, balanced curriculum is delivered alongside a strong emphasis on personal wellbeing, with programmes such as SPHE’s “Walk Tall and Stay Safe” supporting its anti‑bullying policy and inclusive ethos. The school operates from a purpose‑built campus completed in September 2013, after five years on a split site following the 2008 amalgamation of the former Scoil Naoimh Cuimín and Scoil an Chlochair. Facilities accommodate both academic and extracurricular activities, and before/after‑school care is provided for pupils engaged in approved school‑run programmes. The school works closely with the local parish to prepare children for First Holy Communion and Confirmation and celebrates regular masses and assemblies.
History
Scoil Chuimín & Caitríona was formed in 2008 when Scoil Naoimh Cuimín and Scoil an Chlochair amalgamated. The new name reflects two historic figures: Saint Cuimín (c. 592–662), a renowned abbot of Clonfert whose legacy links him to Oughterard, and Catherine McAuley (1778‑1841), founder of the Sisters of Mercy, whose order established a convent in Oughterard in 1858 and later founded Scoil an Chlochair in 1888. After operating on two sites for five years, the school moved into its current purpose‑built premises in September 2013.