St Josephs Boys National School
School Details
Location
About
St. Joseph’s Boys National School in Terenure is a vibrant Roman Catholic primary school serving approximately 380 pupils across Junior Infants to 6th Class. The campus comprises three interconnected buildings that house 16 classrooms, purpose‑specific rooms and a range of resource spaces, providing a modern learning environment that supports both academic and extracurricular pursuits. The school’s educational philosophy embraces the full and harmonious development of each child – intellectually, physically, culturally, morally, socially, linguistically and spiritually – and promotes a caring, stimulating atmosphere where confidence and self‑esteem can flourish. A strong emphasis is placed on holistic well‑being through restorative practices such as daily “circles” that foster belonging, active listening and problem‑solving. A rich programme of sport, arts and STEM activities underpins the school’s commitment to an active and creative curriculum; pupils regularly engage in hurling, Gaelic football, cricket, tag rugby, padel tennis and athletics, while also achieving recognition in drama, music, visual arts and science festivals. Environmental stewardship is evident through the Green Flag status, an active Green Team and a school garden, reinforcing the community’s dedication to sustainability and civic responsibility.
History
Founded in 1866 as Roundtown Boys National School, the institution originally accommodated 174 boys and three teachers in a single large room (66 ft × 22 ft). In 1918 it adopted a Roman Catholic ethos and was renamed St Joseph’s BNS. The school was completely rebuilt in 1972/73, followed by the addition of the “New Building” in 1998, new offices and a staffroom in 2001, and the latest extension, the Annexe, completed around 2011.