Cloneyhurke National School: A Community of Growth, Inclusion, and Excellence
At Cloneyhurke National School, we pride ourselves on fostering a warm and welcoming environment where every child is encouraged to thrive. As Principal, I see first-hand how our school ethos that is centred around friendship, student voice, well-being, and active participation creates a place where children feel valued and inspired to learn.
Student Council: Giving Pupils a Voice
We believe it’s important for pupils to have a say in school life. Our Student Council is a brilliant example of this, allowing students to take on leadership roles and contribute positively to our school community. Last year, they organised fantastic events like Jersey Day and the 100km Challenge, raising funds for the Irish Red Cross and new playground sports equipment. They also treated the whole school to a Pizza Party to celebrate the end of the term which was very well received!
Well-being and Inclusion: A School for Everyone
The well-being of our pupils is at the heart of what we do. This year, we took part in the #SomeoneLikeMe Project, which promotes disability awareness in schools. One of the highlights was a visit from Ailish Dunne, who shared her inspiring journey of overcoming challenges after losing her sight. Activities like this help our pupils develop empathy and a deeper understanding of inclusion.
Friendship and kindness are also a big part of our school culture. Our annual Friendship Week, is a fantastic way for pupils to bond across different year groups through games, challenges, and creative activities. Each child is assigned a ‘secret friend’ to carry out acts of kindness throughout the week, which helps to build a really supportive atmosphere.
Keeping Active: Sport and Outdoor Learning
We know that physical activity is key to a child’s development, which is why we encourage participation in a variety of sports. Our pupils love representing the school in Cumann na mBunscol, demonstrating teamwork and determination. We’re also extremely grateful to Brian Walsh Car Sales, who kindly sponsor our school kits.
Our Sports Day is a highlight of the school calendar, packed with fun and teamwork. Plus, during Active Schools Week, pupils enjoy extra PE lessons, friendly competitions, and even a teacher challenge! The Student Council plays a huge part in organising games like tag rugby, dodgeball, and Olympic handball during break times, ensuring there’s something for everyone. We are also enjoying our swimming lessons in Portarlington Leisure Centre.
STEM and Creativity: Learning Through Experience
We embrace hands-on learning through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Maths). During Maths Week, pupils take part in outdoor maths trails, interactive games, and even coding challenges using Beebots and Scratch. Our older pupils competed in the All Ireland TT Rockstars Challenge, honing their maths skills in a fun and engaging way.
A Place to Belong
At Cloneyhurke National School, we’re more than just a school. We’re a community. Every pupil is encouraged to find their passion, develop confidence, and build lifelong friendships. Whether it’s through sport, student leadership, environmental initiatives, or creative projects, we strive to provide an environment where children feel supported, challenged, and inspired to achieve their best. Cloneyhurke National School is a place where every child belongs, and where memories are made that will last a lifetime. – Ciarán Cunniffe, Principal
“Since joining Cloneyhurke NS, S has been so much happier. They treat him as an individual and give him the 1-1 support he needs when required. He has recently been diagnosed with DCD (dyspraxia) and they have been so helpful, filling in forms and following recommendations. I can see S has grown so much both academically and socially since joining Cloneyhurke NS” – Parent testimonial
