Scoil Náisiúnta Osmann
Birr, Offaly
Key facts
- DEIS
- Mixed
- Pupils enrolled
- 86 smaller than the median Irish primary school (123 pupils)
- Girls and boys
- 38 girls, 48 boys
- Ethos
- Church Of Ireland
- Teaching through Irish
- No subjects through Irish
- Roll number
- 07949I the Department of Education reference for this school
School details
Location
About
Oxmantown National School is a co‑educational Church of Ireland primary school situated beside the historic Birr Castle Demesne in the heart of Georgian Birr, County Offaly. Since opening its red doors in 1860, the school has embraced an inclusive, child‑centred ethos, welcoming pupils of all backgrounds, denominations and abilities. The school’s motto, “I am enough”, underpins a learning environment where each child is encouraged to progress at their own pace and develop their full potential within the framework of the Primary School Curriculum. The curriculum is delivered creatively, with a strong emphasis on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) and drama, supported by regular professional workshops and outdoor educational experiences. Facilities include a striking limestone building with original carved windows, a modern library and digital learning space, a school garden with an outdoor classroom and polytunnel, extensive playgrounds, a grass pitch, winter playsheds and an on‑site kitchen providing warm, nutritious meals. The close‑knit community values partnership between parents and staff, fostering a supportive atmosphere for learning and personal growth.
History
Oxmantown National School was built as a Model School in 1860, its beautiful limestone building with carved window and door surrounds designed by Jacob Owen. In 1968 the school transferred from the Department of Education to the Representative Church Body of the Church of Ireland and was renamed Oxmantown School. An internal renovation took place in 1983 while the historic exterior remained unchanged. A fourth classroom was added in 2013. For over 163 years the school has welcomed children through its doors, maintaining a warm, caring family atmosphere throughout its history.
Applying to Scoil Náisiúnta Osmann
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 Osmann. 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 Osmann
How many pupils attend Scoil Náisiúnta Osmann?
Scoil Náisiúnta Osmann has 86 pupils enrolled, 38 girls and 48 boys. That makes it smaller than the median Irish primary school, which has 123 pupils.
Is Scoil Náisiúnta Osmann a DEIS school?
Yes. Scoil Náisiúnta Osmann 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 Osmann?
Scoil Náisiúnta Osmann has a Church Of Ireland ethos. It is a mixed primary school.
Illustration based on a photo by A.-K. D.. Photo and adapted illustration: CC BY-SA 4.0.