ST CIARANS SPEC SCH
School Details
About
Scoil Chiarain is a specialist special school under the patronage of the Catholic Archbishop of Dublin, catering for boys and girls of primary and post‑primary age with mild learning disabilities. The school delivers a personalised curriculum through Individual Education Plans, small class groups of typically eight to twelve pupils and a wide range of teaching methodologies that emphasise practical, hands‑on activities. Personal and social development is woven into every level of the programme, ensuring that each child can progress socially, emotionally and academically in a supportive, stimulating environment. The campus is purpose‑built and includes a central courtyard, a gymnasium and specialist rooms for Home Economics, Creative Arts, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Resource teaching and Art Therapy. Outdoor facilities comprise playgrounds, a basketball court, a football training area and a wildlife garden, providing ample space for physical activity and experiential learning. Transport is arranged via Bus Éireann and the school continually updates its resources to meet evolving student needs.
History
The school opened in 1970 in a disused former school building near the Met Office in Glasnevin. In 1979 it relocated to its current purpose‑built site, which was later refurbished in 2002/03. Since its foundation, Scoil Chiarain has been officially recognised by the Department of Education & Science and has grown its specialist provision for children with mild learning disabilities.