Baile An Chuilinn National School
Muinebeag, Carlow
Key facts
- Mixed
- Pupils enrolled
- 126 about the same size as the median Irish primary school (123 pupils)
- Girls and boys
- 62 girls, 64 boys
- Ethos
- Catholic
- Teaching through Irish
- No subjects through Irish
- Roll number
- 01116A the Department of Education reference for this school
School details
Location
About
Baile an Chuilinn National School is a rural, co‑educational primary school set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Leinster and the Blackstairs Mountains. As a Catholic‑patroned institution it welcomes families of all faiths and none, fostering an inclusive community where diversity enriches daily life. The school operates from its historic 1810 two‑storey building – the oldest Irish school still in its original premises – which has been extended (the “Masters Room” added in 1960) and refurbished (1988) to provide modern classrooms, specialist spaces for special‑education support and a range of communal areas. The educational approach is holistic, aiming to develop each child physically, socially, emotionally, spiritually and academically. Five mainstream classes serve approximately 126 pupils, supported by two Special Education Teachers, an Additional Needs Assistant and a dedicated secretary. A strong emphasis is placed on high expectations, mutual respect and the cultivation of confidence, creativity and character. Enrichment programmes include digital literacy through Google Classroom, active‑school initiatives, arts and cultural events, gardening clubs and a broad sports offering, all underpinned by close links with parents and the local community.
History
Founded in 1810, the school was established on a one‑acre site donated by Mr C. LaTouche to serve as a chapel yard and free school for the poor children of the estate. Built under the direction of Rev. M. Prendergast, the original two‑storey structure housed a classroom below and the master’s residence above. The school predates the 1831 national school system and became part of it by 1861. Notable developments include the addition of the “Masters Room” in 1960 and a major refurbishment in 1988 costing £56,000. Throughout its history the school has maintained its charitable ethos, reflecting the LaTouche family’s tradition of supporting the needy during the famine and beyond.
Applying to Baile An Chuilinn National School
For a September 2027 place, a school's formal admissions process cannot begin before 1 October 2026. The school sets its own opening and closing dates in its annual admission notice.
National term dates 2026/27
Irish schools follow a standardised school year, so these nationwide primary school dates apply broadly to Baile An Chuilinn National School. Individual schools set their own discretionary closure days, confirm exact dates with the school.
- October Mid-Term Break: Mon 26 Oct – Fri 30 Oct 2026
- Christmas Holidays: Wed 23 Dec 2026 – Tue 5 Jan 2027
- February Mid-Term Break: Thu 18 Feb – Fri 19 Feb 2027 (post-primary schools: Mon 15 Feb – Fri 19 Feb 2027)
- Easter Holidays: Mon 22 Mar – Sun 4 Apr 2027
Primary schools close for the last two days of the February mid-term week and may use discretionary days to take the full week, so their break can be shorter than post-primary schools'.
Frequently asked questions about Baile An Chuilinn National School
How many pupils attend Baile An Chuilinn National School?
Baile An Chuilinn National School has 126 pupils enrolled, 62 girls and 64 boys. That makes it about the same size as the median Irish primary school, which has 123 pupils.
Is Baile An Chuilinn National School a DEIS school?
No. Baile An Chuilinn National School is not part of DEIS, the Department of Education programme of additional supports for schools serving communities at risk of educational disadvantage. Not holding DEIS status says nothing about how good a school is, only about the profile of the community it serves.
What is the ethos of Baile An Chuilinn National School?
Baile An Chuilinn National School has a Catholic ethos. It is a mixed primary school.