Scoil Náisiúnta Seamus Naofa
Galway
Key facts
- Gaeltacht
- Irish-medium
- Mixed
- Pupils enrolled
- 221 larger than the median Irish primary school (123 pupils)
- Girls and boys
- 103 girls, 118 boys
- Ethos
- Catholic
- Teaching through Irish
- All subjects through Irish
- Roll number
- 19803T the Department of Education reference for this school
School details
About
Scoil Shéamais Naofa is a vibrant primary school serving the Barna community in County Galway. The school prides itself on a warm, welcoming atmosphere where pupils are greeted by name each morning and cared for in a “home‑from‑home” environment. Its educational philosophy blends traditional Irish language, music and cultural activities with contemporary, globally‑oriented learning, ensuring that children experience both local heritage and international perspectives. Digital technology is integrated into every classroom, a development supported by a 2021 European Union grant that supplied devices to families lacking access and expanded classroom resources, helping to bridge the digital divide. The school offers a range of facilities that support a holistic education, including a dedicated hall for community events, a “Scoil Ghlas” (green school) programme promoting environmental awareness, and active participation in road‑safety campaigns and national competitions such as anti‑waste and ECO‑UNESCO awards. A team of special educational needs teachers and support staff provides tailored assistance for pupils with additional requirements, reinforcing the school’s inclusive ethos. Enrolment for the 2026/27 academic year is currently open, with clear information available for prospective families.
History
Founded in 1864, Scoil Shéamais Naofa has over a century and a half of educational service. The school celebrated its 150‑year anniversary in 2014, showcasing a heritage archive of photographs, artefacts and memorabilia that reflect its long‑standing role in the local community. Notable former pupils include figures from sport, the arts and public service, underscoring the school’s tradition of nurturing talent across diverse fields.
Applying to Scoil Náisiúnta Seamus Naofa
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 Seamus Naofa. 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 Seamus Naofa
How many pupils attend Scoil Náisiúnta Seamus Naofa?
Scoil Náisiúnta Seamus Naofa has 221 pupils enrolled, 103 girls and 118 boys. That makes it larger than the median Irish primary school, which has 123 pupils.
Is Scoil Náisiúnta Seamus Naofa a DEIS school?
No. Scoil Náisiúnta Seamus Naofa 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.
Does Scoil Náisiúnta Seamus Naofa teach through Irish?
Yes. Scoil Náisiúnta Seamus Naofa teaches all subjects through Irish. It is also located in a Gaeltacht area.