Synge Street Primary School
School Details
Location
About
Bunscoil Synge Street is a mixed‑gender primary school situated on Synge Street in Dublin 8. Since September 2017 the school has operated a full Irish‑medium stream – the Sruth Lán Ghaeilge – which welcomes boys and girls from the early years (Naíonáin Bheaga) through to the end of primary education, delivering the curriculum entirely through Gaeilge. In addition, the school provides English‑medium classes for boys in the upper years (4th‑6th class), ensuring a flexible offering that meets the needs of the local community. The school places a strong emphasis on creating a positive, trusting and secure environment where each child’s individuality is respected. Diversity is celebrated, with half of the families coming from overseas backgrounds such as India, Bangladesh and China, and the school’s ethos promotes inclusivity, innovation and holistic development. A vibrant co‑curricular programme includes sports, a Green School committee, a school band called “The Syngers”, and a dedicated play‑therapist and well‑being team, all of which contribute to a lively, supportive atmosphere for learning and personal growth.
History
The origins of Bunscoil Synge Street date back to 1864 when the Synge Street schools first opened on Monday 11 May 1864. A mass was celebrated in the Oratory to bless the new monastery and school, and the Lord Mayor, Paul McSwiney, enrolled his son as the first pupil. By 7 July 1864 the school accommodated 604 boys across four large classrooms and one small room. In 1954 a new primary school building was inaugurated, serving a combined enrolment of 1,430 pupils in both primary and secondary sections. Historical records extend to the 1920s, and former pupils (“old boys”) continue to maintain a connection with the school, visiting from locations as far as Argentina and Australia.