Darndale National School
DARNDALE, Dublin
Key facts
- DEIS
- Mixed
- Pupils enrolled
- 182 larger than the median Irish primary school (123 pupils)
- Girls and boys
- 79 girls, 103 boys
- Ethos
- Catholic
- Teaching through Irish
- No subjects through Irish
- Roll number
- 19524P the Department of Education reference for this school
School details
Location
About
Our Lady Immaculate Senior National School, Darndale, is a co‑educational primary school under the patronage of the Archbishop of Dublin. Guided by a vision that embraces the moral, academic, physical, cultural, emotional, personal and spiritual development of every pupil, the school works in partnership with families and the wider Darndale community to create a supportive Whole‑School ethos. The curriculum is delivered through modern teaching methods, utilising interactive whiteboards and a range of computers to enhance learning across all subjects. The school boasts a well‑equipped learning environment, including a dedicated cookery room, a fully stocked science laboratory, a library and a spacious PE hall. A vibrant extracurricular programme offers art, sport, music, homework and choir clubs, as well as after‑school activities. Regular educational trips to institutions such as Dublin City University, the National Concert Hall, the Dáil, the National Aquatic Centre and local parks broaden pupils’ experiences beyond the classroom. An Early Start provision welcomes younger children, providing a seamless transition into the 3rd‑to‑6th‑class programme.
History
The school opened its doors in 1975 and has been guided by five principals since its foundation. Over the decades it has evolved from a modest local school to a modern institution featuring contemporary technology and a wide range of facilities. The school’s crest reflects its connection to the Oblates of Mary Immaculate and the Archdiocese of Dublin, symbolising its long‑standing relationship with the local parish.
Applying to Darndale 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 Darndale 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 Darndale National School
How many pupils attend Darndale National School?
Darndale National School has 182 pupils enrolled, 79 girls and 103 boys. That makes it larger than the median Irish primary school, which has 123 pupils.
Is Darndale National School a DEIS school?
Yes. Darndale National School is part of DEIS, the Department of Education programme called Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools. DEIS schools serve communities at risk of educational disadvantage and receive additional supports, which can include smaller classes, extra teaching posts and funding for books and meals.
What is the ethos of Darndale National School?
Darndale National School has a Catholic ethos. It is a mixed primary school.