School Spotlight: Castletown NS

Aisling Monaghan

At Castletown National School, community is at the heart of everything we do. From parents and grandparents to local businesses and farmers, everyone takes pride in being part of school life, creating a supportive environment and building strong connections across the local area.

Learning at Castletown NS goes far beyond the classroom. Students regularly take maths and science walks along the Castletown Greenway, exploring nature and putting their lessons into practice. They even pick blackberries for jam-making, turning simple outdoor activities into fun, hands-on learning experiences. PE lessons often take place at the nearby Pitch and Putt Club, giving children the chance to develop their skills in a fresh and exciting setting.

Local farmers also open their gates for special events, such as National Potato Day, sharing knowledge and practical experiences that bring lessons to life. Adding a touch of fun to the school grounds, the “weather forecasting stone” delights walkers on the greenway and reminds students of the playful side of learning.

There is always plenty happening at Castletown NS. Earlier this month, a coffee morning welcomed parents of new infants, giving them the chance to meet other families and get to know the school community.

Looking ahead, the school’s annual open night on Wednesday 24th September (6–8pm) will invite prospective families to explore classrooms, meet staff, and discover the wide range of learning opportunities on offer.

Serving children from the parish of Castletown/Fletcherstown and beyond, the school benefits from smaller class sizes, enabling teachers to provide tailored, student-centred learning experiences that meet the needs of every child.

“Our teachers, together with John Grant from the Kells Drama Society, are thrilled to be preparing for our first-ever drama production in early 2026,” said Brien Kearns, principal of Castletown NS.

"Castletown NS truly shows what a school can be when it’s at the heart of its community. From outdoor learning adventures to school events, everyday classroom lessons, and unique experiences like meeting the school’s therapy dog, Velvet, students enjoy a nurturing environment where they feel valued, inspired, and ready to thrive," he added.