A school at the centre of local community
Rathcormac National School is a co- educational primary school situated approximately 6 kilometres north of Sligo on the N15 Sligo- Donegal road. It is in a very scenic location, having Benbulben to the north, looking across Drumcliffe Bay. There are nine class teachers, three special education teachers and an administrative principal. In addition to the teaching staff, the school has three Special Needs Assistants, a secretary and caretaker.
“Rathcormac NS strives to provide a well- ordered, caring, happy and secure atmosphere for our 244 pupils, where they are encouraged to reach their full potential. We also endeavour to enhance the self- esteem of everyone in the school community, to foster in all, respect for people and property and to encourage positive, responsible behaviour,” said Principal Frank O’Sullivan.
He added: “In addition to the provision of the primary school curriculum, we also participate in the many sports events for primary schools. We take part in all Cumann na mBunscol hurling, football and Mini- Sevens competitions, as well as the Schools Cross Country Championships. Also this year, approximately 50 of our pupils took part in the Primary Schools Try- A- Triathlon event. We even had children taking part in the Primary Schools Handball competition this year for the first time, winning medals in almost all the events. We are lucky to have a close relationship with Sligo Tennis Club, and Conor Gormley has arranged for classes to avail of badminton coaching free of charge for six week programmes.”
Music and Drama play a huge part in the life of Rathcormac NS. “Each year we hold our Christmas Carol service which is attended by more than 500 people. Many of our classes put on class plays throughout the year, and we find that these little plays ( some of which are performed as Gaeilge) really enhance the self- confidence of our pupils. We are fortunate to have staff who have a big interest in music. Every Monday afternoon children from first to sixth class come together as a choral group, and each Friday we have a group of children who play music together under the guidance of Moninne Fitzpatrick,” said Mr. O’Sullivan.
Rathcormac NS has an active Parents Association which meets every month and contributes greatly to the school community. In addition to providing financial support through various fundraising activities, the Parents Association plays a vital part in all social events and has introduced many initiatives. “Parents are encouraged to be actively involved in their childrens’ education, and we are very grateful for the support they give to our school at all times,” he said.
“Another close partner is Rathcormac Tidy Towns Association. Each year the Tidy Towns committee sponsor prizes for an Anti- Litter Poster competition in sixth class, and at Christmas we hold a competition whereby the children make decorations from recyclable materials. The school environment has been enhanced by the provision of trees/ saplings from the Tidy Towns committee also.
“In Rathcormac NS we consider ourselves part of a wider community, and are lucky to have such good relationships with our partners. Our aim is to provide the children in our care with a holistic education, where they are happy and can achieve their full potential,” said Mr. O’Sullivan.