Scoil Naisiunta Caitriona Naionain
School Details
Location
About
Scoil Chaitríona Infants is a co‑educational Catholic infant primary school that provides a welcoming, inclusive environment for children aged three to seven. The school follows a child‑centred curriculum that blends the national Early Childhood Curriculum Framework (Aistear) with structured play, literacy programmes such as Jolly Phonics and guided reading, and a strong emphasis on oral language development. Learning is delivered through thematic, playful activities that encourage imagination, problem‑solving and social interaction, ensuring pupils become confident, competent learners who enjoy school. The campus comprises twelve classrooms together with specialised facilities that support a range of learning needs: four learning‑support rooms, a sensory room, a sand‑and‑water room, and a spacious hall for assemblies and performances. Additional resources include a dedicated staff team, a vibrant Parents’ Association and an active Board of Management that oversees the school’s governance and finances. Free hot meals are provided through the Department of Social Protection and Dublin Corporation, reinforcing the school’s commitment to the wellbeing of all pupils.
History
Scoil Chaitríona was founded in 1960 under the care of The Mercy Order. In 1963 the sisters moved into Coolock House, which had been reconstructed as a convent. The Georgian house that now forms part of the convent was the childhood home of the Mercy Order’s foundress, Catherine McAuley, who lived there from 1809 to 1829. Although no sisters currently teach at the school, the Mercy ethos of providing education and fostering self‑reliance remains integral to its aims.