St Beacons National School
School Details
Location
About
St. Beacon’s National School is a medium‑sized, mixed primary school situated a short distance from the Main Street in Mullinavat, County Kilkenny. It follows the Primary School Curriculum set out by the Department of Education and caters for boys and girls aged 4 to 13 years. In the 2021‑22 academic year the roll was 184 pupils, with the school day running from 9.05 am to 2.45 pm. The school’s ethos aims to promote the full and harmonious development of each child – intellectually, physically, culturally, morally and spiritually – encouraging a living relationship with God and with others. The learning environment is enriched by a range of extra‑curricular activities and programmes. Recent highlights include chess sessions for junior classes, a STEM show, tin‑whistle music groups, gymnastics, and a “Monster Dash” sports event, reflecting a strong emphasis on both academic enrichment and physical wellbeing. The school also participates in the Green Schools programme, prioritising environmental awareness, and maintains robust internet safety and cyber‑bullying policies to protect pupils in the digital age. Facilities include a modern purpose‑built building opened in 1992 on a generous site donated by local benefactors. The campus provides ample outdoor play space – historically known as the “Rae Field” – and indoor resources that support a vibrant, active school community.
History
The Holy Faith Sisters founded St Brigid’s Convent Girls National School, serving the parish for 112 years. A separate boys’ school, St Patrick’s Boys National School, operated nearby. In 1992 the two schools were amalgamated and the current school building was opened, named after the parish patron, St Beacon. Part of the site, formerly called the “Rae Field”, was donated by John and Bridget Dalton of Garrandarragh. A plaque commemorating the Daltons’ generosity was unveiled by TD Liam Aylward in 1992 and is displayed inside the main entrance.