ST JAMES N S
School Details
About
St James National School is a small rural primary school situated in the townland of Ballingrane, at the heart of the Cappagh parish in West Limerick. Set amidst a patchwork of lush countryside, the school serves a close‑knit community of farming families and local residents. The campus comprises a modernised main building that has been extended most recently in 2021, providing spacious classrooms, a dedicated learning hub and facilities that support a broad curriculum. With 111 pupils enrolled for the 2025/26 academic year, the school maintains a low pupil‑to‑staff ratio, employing seven teachers and seven ancillary staff to ensure personalised attention. The school’s educational philosophy, outlined in its Mission Statement, recognises each child as an individual and promotes a caring, creative environment. It places equal emphasis on the social, emotional, physical, intellectual, spiritual and moral development of learners, fostering a challenging yet supportive atmosphere that encourages academic success and positive relationships among pupils, families and the wider community. An active Parents’ Association and a proactive Board of Management further enrich the school life, reinforcing its role as a focal point for the local area.
History
St James National School was founded in 1866 by the Right Honourable Viscount Southwell. The original structure comprised two classrooms – one for girls adjacent to the church and one for boys – with living quarters for the headmaster situated centrally. This building served the community until the 1970s, when a newer school replaced the earlier village premises. The original school was refurbished and modernised during the 1990s. Subsequent extensions were completed in 2007 and again in 2021, reflecting the school’s growth and ongoing commitment to providing up‑to‑date facilities for its pupils.