The Harold School
School Details
Location
About
The Harold School is a co‑educational Catholic primary school that welcomes children of all faiths, fostering a harmonious, secure and caring environment. Its educational philosophy places equal emphasis on the intellectual, spiritual, physical, moral and cultural development of each pupil, encouraging self‑esteem, respect, responsibility and a love of learning. The curriculum follows the Department of Education programmes and is enriched by a wide range of co‑curricular and extra‑curricular activities, including music, drama, dance, handcrafts, Irish language, heritage studies and extensive physical‑activity programmes such as Active School, sports and movement games. The school benefits from a variety of facilities that support this holistic approach: a well‑maintained school garden, a modern library, dedicated IT resources, a student council, and specialised spaces for art, music and physical education. Health and wellbeing are prioritised through healthy lunch provisions, a wellbeing programme and a strong partnership with parents, who are invited to act as active members of the school community. Staff development is encouraged within a collaborative, collegial setting, ensuring that teaching and learning remain dynamic and responsive to pupils’ needs.
History
The Harold School has been a cornerstone of the Glasthule parish for over a century. Originating from the Harold Memorial School, it was established after Fr George Harold raised funds in the United States to clear the debt on St Joseph’s Church, leading the community to honour his legacy with a lasting stone tribute. Initially a girls’ school staffed by the Sisters of Mercy, a boys’ school was later added, each operating under its own roll number and ethos. In the 1980s the original buildings required extensive refurbishment, including sealing off a flood‑prone boiler house. In 2001 the separate boys’ and girls’ schools amalgamated to become “The Harold School”, and the institution has since expanded into the former Presentation College building, continuing its service to generations of local families.