Drim National School
Loughrea, Galway
Key facts
- Mixed
- Pupils enrolled
- 15 smaller than the median Irish primary school (123 pupils)
- Girls and boys
- 9 girls, 6 boys
- Ethos
- Catholic
- Teaching through Irish
- No subjects through Irish
- Roll number
- 17331R the Department of Education reference for this school
School details
Location
About
Drim National School, situated in the picturesque countryside of East Galway at the foot of the Slieve Aughty Mountains, operates under the patronage of the Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Clonfert. The school’s vision is to enable every pupil and staff member to reach their full potential within a collaborative atmosphere that respects differences of ability, culture, race and language. Emphasising inclusive, child‑centred learning, the school integrates modern technology with traditional values to create a stimulating educational environment. The campus combines historic charm with contemporary facilities. Two bright new classrooms were added in 2006 and interactive whiteboards were installed in 2008, supporting dynamic teaching and engaging presentations. Outdoor amenities include a spacious playground featuring a basketball court, a unique tunnel called *Gus*, and a playing pitch. Recent enhancements to the playground shelters showcase Irish legends such as Fionn MacCumhaill and the Children of Lir, reinforcing cultural heritage alongside physical activity.
History
The school’s origins date back to around 1917 when the local community erected the original building and appointed a local teacher, Sarah Keane. Following official recognition by the Department of Education, Mrs Dewane became the first principal in 1918. Overcrowding and limited facilities characterised the early years, with water drawn from a nearby well. The present school building was constructed in 1941, replacing the original structure. Subsequent improvements were carried out in the 1970s and 1980s, with major upgrades in 2006 (two new classrooms) and 2008 (interactive whiteboards). The History page records recollections from former pupils and teachers, underscoring the school’s long‑standing role in the community.
Applying to Drim 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 Drim 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 Drim National School
How many pupils attend Drim National School?
Drim National School has 15 pupils enrolled, 9 girls and 6 boys. That makes it smaller than the median Irish primary school, which has 123 pupils.
Is Drim National School a DEIS school?
No. Drim 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 Drim National School?
Drim National School has a Catholic ethos. It is a mixed primary school.