Knockanean National School
Ennis, Clare
Key facts
- Mixed
- Pupils enrolled
- 262 larger than the median Irish primary school (123 pupils)
- Girls and boys
- 129 girls, 133 boys
- Ethos
- Catholic
- Teaching through Irish
- No subjects through Irish
- Roll number
- 17583V the Department of Education reference for this school
School details
Location
About
Knockanean National School is a vibrant primary school serving the local community with a strong emphasis on holistic education and active participation. The curriculum blends the core subjects of Irish, English, maths and science with a rich programme of creative and practical activities, including music, art, Lego robotics and STEAM projects. Recent initiatives such as the PROTECT Climate Project demonstrate the school’s commitment to environmental awareness, giving pupils the opportunity to research, film and present on climate change topics to a wider audience. The school fosters a lively extracurricular culture, highlighted by successful sports teams in Gaelic football, a dynamic Student Council, and dedicated Green, Active and Sports committees that involve pupils from all classes in planning events, sustainability actions and community outreach. Recent achievements include winning the Maths Eyes Annual Poster competition in partnership with Maths Week Ireland, reflecting a supportive environment that encourages academic excellence alongside personal development. Modern facilities support these activities, with dedicated spaces for music, art and technology, and a welcoming school day structure that promotes inclusive learning and community spirit.
History
The first school at Knockanean was erected in 1824 for 84 pupils but closed in 1837, leaving no trace. In 1842, landlord Mr. Howley contributed ten pounds to build a new school, appointing Mr. Patrick O Gorman as the inaugural teacher; 84 children (58 boys, 26 girls) attended, paying fees. A second school near Gaurus Bridge operated from 1840, and during the Great Famine (1845‑1848) the school served as a feeding station for locals. The first state‑system school was constructed in 1860‑61 under Fr. Gerry Vaughan, featuring stone walls, a thatched roof and earthen floor, with separate rooms for boys and girls. Amalgamation of the two schools occurred in 1877. A new building was opened in 1949 by Fr. Smyth. Enrolment grew from 60 pupils (1896‑1930) to 276 by 2010, reflecting the school’s enduring role in the community.
Applying to Knockanean 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 Knockanean 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 Knockanean National School
How many pupils attend Knockanean National School?
Knockanean National School has 262 pupils enrolled, 129 girls and 133 boys. That makes it larger than the median Irish primary school, which has 123 pupils.
Is Knockanean National School a DEIS school?
No. Knockanean 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 Knockanean National School?
Knockanean National School has a Catholic ethos. It is a mixed primary school.