Scoil Uí Ghramhnaigh: 90 Years nurturing the Irish language and community
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Past pupil Treasa Ní Chonghaile checks the roll book. David MullenImage 2 of 12
Past pupils Eileen Barber, Brid Ní Chofaigh and Maura Ní Shaogháin check out the old roll book at the 90 year anniversary. PHOTOS: DAVY MULLEN. David MullenImage 3 of 12
Four generations of the Ó Lupáin family pictured at the anniversary celebration. David MullenImage 4 of 12
Eileen Barber, Brid Ní Chofaigh and Maura Ní Shaogháin. David MullenImage 5 of 12
The oldest past pupil Micheal Ó Lupáin cuts the cake with the youngest student, Oisín. David MullenImage 6 of 12
Past pupils Brid Ní Chofaigh, Colm MacDonnacha, Micheal Ó Griofa and Bridin Ui Chonaire pictured at the 90 year celebration. David MullenImage 7 of 12
A cake to celebrate the National School anniversary. David MullenImage 8 of 12
Re-enacting the school classroom from 90 years ago, Daire McAuley as teacher with twin sisters - Ciara and Kate Miggin as students. David MullenImage 9 of 12
Students and parents pictured at the 90 year anniversary celebration. David MullenImage 10 of 12
Fr Micheal Doherty chats with the students at the 90 year celebration. David MullenImage 11 of 12
Micheala Delaney, Aine Ní Dhonnchabha and Neasa Ní Mháirtín check the old rool book on display at the 90 year anniversary. David MullenImage 12 of 12
Aine Ní Dhonnchabha Neasa Ní Mháirtín. David MullenScoil Uí Ghramhnaigh in Ráth Chairn is celebrating its 90th anniversary, an occasion of great pride for the school and the Gaeltacht community. The celebration offers an opportunity to honour the past, recognise the community of today and look with hope towards the future of education in the area.
The school opened its doors in 1936, a year after families arrived from Connemara to build a new life in Ráth Chairn. They brought their language, culture and traditions, but above all, they brought courage and a vision for their children and the generations to come. Since its foundation, the school has been a beacon of hope for the future of education, rooted in the Irish language and the strength of its community.
As a Gaeltacht primary school, Scoil Uí Ghramhnaigh has a special role. Irish is more than a school subject here: it is a living language heard in conversation, laughter and song. Through it, children learn, form friendships and strengthen their connection to their heritage. These experiences were among the fondest memories shared in congratulatory videos from past pupils now living around the world.
The story of the school is woven into the story of Ráth Chairn. For ninety years, the school and its community have grown together. Generations from many families have attended, and those memories, friendships and connections remain strong. The community supports the school, while the school brings life, energy and hope to the community.
This anniversary offers an opportunity to thank the teachers, staff, parents and local people who have given their time and dedication to the school over the years. We also remember those who have passed away, but whose influence continues to be felt in school life and throughout the community.
As part of the celebration, a young oak tree was planted in the school garden. It symbolises the school’s deep roots in the Irish language and culture, the strength of its community and the growth that lies ahead. Just as an oak grows from a small acorn, every child blossoms when given care, support, understanding and love.
The children are the beating heart of the school and the foundation of its future. The school community’s wish is that every child will have the opportunity to learn, make friends and develop their own talents in a happy, welcoming environment. The celebration reflects the same commitment that inspired the pioneering families of Ráth Chairn: to give every child the best possible start.
While in 1936, the people of Ráth Chairn could never have imagined the opportunities children now enjoy through technology and innovation, one thing has remained constant since the doors first opened: the care and nurturing every child receives, helping them to grow and flourish as a young person.