Doneraile National School
Doneraile, Cork
Key facts
- DEIS
- Mixed
- Pupils enrolled
- 174 larger than the median Irish primary school (123 pupils)
- Girls and boys
- 85 girls, 89 boys
- Ethos
- Catholic
- Teaching through Irish
- No subjects through Irish
- Roll number
- 20493O the Department of Education reference for this school
School details
Location
About
Canon Sheehan Primary School is a co‑educational national school serving children from Junior Infants to Sixth Class in the picturesque town of Doneraile, North Cork. The school prides itself on a warm, welcoming atmosphere that draws on the combined talents of pupils, staff, parents and the wider community to deliver a caring, holistic education. Rooted in a proud Catholic tradition handed down by the Presentation Sisters and Christian Brothers, the school also recognises and respects the diverse religions and nationalities of its families, fostering an inclusive environment where every child is valued as an individual. The educational approach centres on the full and harmonious development of each pupil – academically, socially, emotionally and environmentally. Emphasis is placed on building self‑confidence, self‑expression and a sense of personal worth, while encouraging respect for people, property and the natural world. High professional standards are maintained across teaching, special needs support and ancillary staff, creating a well‑ordered, stimulating and secure atmosphere. Parent involvement is actively promoted through the Parents’ Association and regular home‑school communication, reinforcing a collaborative community spirit. Key features of the school include a strong focus on gender equality, a commitment to healthy eating and positive behaviour, and participation in the Green Schools programme. The school motto, *Níos Láidre Le Chéile* (“Stronger together”), reflects its dedication to nurturing a sense of togetherness and collective responsibility among pupils, staff and families.
Applying to Doneraile 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 Doneraile 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 Doneraile National School
How many pupils attend Doneraile National School?
Doneraile National School has 174 pupils enrolled, 85 girls and 89 boys. That makes it larger than the median Irish primary school, which has 123 pupils.
Is Doneraile National School a DEIS school?
Yes. Doneraile 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 Doneraile National School?
Doneraile National School has a Catholic ethos. It is a mixed primary school.