School History

St.Joseph’s National School Kinvara was built in 1904. The original four classroom building was built on convent grounds owned by the Mercy nuns and it replaced an older ‘Convent of Mercy Primary School’. As well as girls, the school catered for boys until they made their First Communion in First Class at which point they then transferred to the local boys’ school.

The school was refurbished in 1949-’50. Following this, the four classrooms and cookery kitchen now had additional facilities in the form of two new blocks containing cloakrooms and toilets. The introduction of school transport in 1969 played an important role in the growth of the school. This enabled pupils from further afield to attend the school. Coupled with the closure of nearby Killina National School in 1972, this ensured a wider catchment area for St.Joseph’s N.S. and this supplemented the number of pupils attending the school.

The early – mid 1980’s saw an increase in pupil numbers and accordingly teacher numbers also. New prefabricated classrooms facilitated these pupils until the mid ‘90s when a substantial refurbishment and extension to the school took place. Existing classrooms were modified and a new block of four classrooms were added – this new extension was officially opened in Spring 1995. Two years later brought an end to over 90 years of dedicated service by the Sisters of Mercy to St.Joseph’s N.S. An improved economic climate has facilitated the development of the school both in terms of pupil numbers and facilities provided by the school. St.Joseph’s N.S. has seen a number of significant extensions (new classrooms and a spacious school hall) while the construction of a substantial Astroturf pitch has provided both the student body and local community with an all year round facility for outdoor activities. The opening of an Autism Class (Seoda) has further broadened the scope of the school to serve the local community in a more inclusive and comprehensive way.

St.Joseph’s N.S. has enthusiastically embraced the advent of modern technology to enhance learning and teaching. Teachers and pupils alike take great pride in representing the school in a wide array of STEM initiatives and activities (Curious Minds – SFI, Digital Schools, Coding Ireland, and Lego League).

Other initiatives of note embraced by the school body include – Music (Orchestra / Choir), Drama, Sport, Gaelbhratach, Health Promoting Schools, Incredible Edibles, Credit Union Quizzes, to mention but a few.

The school body is proud of the important role the school plays in serving Kinvara and its population and will endeavour to continue providing an education that is relevant in an ever-changing world.