Scoil Náisiúnta Ath Fhada
Midleton, Cork
Key facts
- Mixed
- Pupils enrolled
- 304 larger than the median Irish primary school (123 pupils)
- Girls and boys
- 135 girls, 169 boys
- Ethos
- Catholic
- Teaching through Irish
- No subjects through Irish
- Roll number
- 17579H the Department of Education reference for this school
School details
Location
About
Scoil Íosagáin, Átha Fhada (Aghada National School) is a co‑educational primary school that places the Catholic ethos at the heart of its community while embracing an inclusive approach that respects families of all faiths and none. The school’s educational philosophy balances academic rigour with a strong emphasis on social development, moral grounding, a solid work ethic and resilience, aiming to equip children with the skills needed to face adversity. The campus combines historic charm with modern amenities. Since the 1983 expansion, the school offers seven well‑equipped classrooms, a large multi‑purpose room that serves as a kitchen and storage area, a dedicated library, staff and office spaces, and extensive outdoor facilities including basketball courts and a playing pitch. Additional provisions include ICT resources such as iPads, a vibrant music programme, a range of sports activities, and participation in environmental initiatives like the Green School flag scheme. These facilities support a holistic learning environment that nurtures both the intellectual and creative talents of its pupils.
History
Founded in 1819 by local landlord John Roche Esq., Scoil Íosagáin began as a privately funded school with a bequest for the teacher’s salary. It entered the national school system in 1832 following Daniel O’Connell’s reforms. A new three‑classroom building opened in 1948, later amalgamating with neighbouring schools. In 1968 Ballintibbet (previously merged with Guileen) joined the school, and a major extension in 1983 added seven classrooms, a purpose‑room/kitchen, library, office, staff room and sports fields. The school uniform of wine/maroon and grey was introduced in 1984, alongside a crest featuring the youthful Jesus against a rising sun and sea.
Applying to Scoil Náisiúnta Ath Fhada
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 Scoil Náisiúnta Ath Fhada. 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 Scoil Náisiúnta Ath Fhada
How many pupils attend Scoil Náisiúnta Ath Fhada?
Scoil Náisiúnta Ath Fhada has 304 pupils enrolled, 135 girls and 169 boys. That makes it larger than the median Irish primary school, which has 123 pupils.
Is Scoil Náisiúnta Ath Fhada a DEIS school?
No. Scoil Náisiúnta Ath Fhada 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 Scoil Náisiúnta Ath Fhada?
Scoil Náisiúnta Ath Fhada has a Catholic ethos. It is a mixed primary school.