Scoil Náisiúnta Cnoc Machan
Bunmahon, Waterford
Key facts
- DEIS
- Mixed
- Pupils enrolled
- 6 smaller than the median Irish primary school (123 pupils)
- Girls and boys
- 2 girls, 4 boys
- Ethos
- Catholic
- Teaching through Irish
- No subjects through Irish
- Roll number
- 18077L the Department of Education reference for this school
School details
Location
About
Scoil Naisiunta Cnoc Machan is a vibrant primary school serving the Knockmahon community in County Waterford. Situated near the former Church of Ireland site – now the UNESCO‑designated Coppercoast Geo Park Centre – the school provides a welcoming environment for children aged 4‑12, fostering a strong sense of local heritage and cultural identity. The curriculum is aligned with the revised national programme of learning, encouraging inquiry‑based teaching and the development of critical thinking, creativity and social skills. The campus blends historic charm with modern facilities. The original building, opened in September 1959, was a milestone for the area, introducing indoor water taps and electricity for the first time. A substantial extension completed in 2006 added spacious classrooms, specialist rooms and upgraded ICT infrastructure, giving pupils access to contemporary learning technologies. Extensive playgrounds and outdoor spaces support physical development and play‑based learning. Scoil Naisiunta Cnoc Machan places particular emphasis on STEM and environmental education, participating in programmes such as Green Schools, the Active School Flag and nutrition‑education initiatives. These activities complement a holistic approach that values wellbeing, safeguarding and inclusive community involvement, preparing students for lifelong learning and active citizenship.
History
The school was originally located beside the Church of Ireland (now the UNESCO Coppercoast Geo Park Centre). Construction of the present building began in 1956 and the doors opened in September 1959; during the interim period (Christmas 1958 to June 1959) pupils were taught in Saleen Church. The first principal of the new school was Ted Buckley, who had also led the earlier school. In 2006 a new extension was completed, providing additional space and enabling the implementation of the revised curriculum.
Applying to Scoil Náisiúnta Cnoc Machan
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 Cnoc Machan. 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 Cnoc Machan
How many pupils attend Scoil Náisiúnta Cnoc Machan?
Scoil Náisiúnta Cnoc Machan has 6 pupils enrolled, 2 girls and 4 boys. That makes it smaller than the median Irish primary school, which has 123 pupils.
Is Scoil Náisiúnta Cnoc Machan a DEIS school?
Yes. Scoil Náisiúnta Cnoc Machan 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 Scoil Náisiúnta Cnoc Machan?
Scoil Náisiúnta Cnoc Machan has a Catholic ethos. It is a mixed primary school.