In a significant move reflecting the evolving landscape of education in Ireland, Lyreacrompane Primary School has announced its transition to become Kerry Education and Training Board’s (Kerry ETB’s) fourth Community National School (CNS). This decision marks a shift from its previous Catholic ethos to a multidenominational one, aimed at offering greater inclusivity and choice to families within the community and wider area. Lyreacrompane will be the only school offering this choice for parents in the north Kerry area.
Principal Eilish Lyons expressed the motivation behind this transition, stating, “Locally, there was a lot of support for it. Many of our families have different religions, and we wanted to offer choice to everyone. We are a changing Ireland.” The decision was met with overwhelming positivity from the local community, including parents, teachers, and students. Eilish emphasised the collaborative nature of the decision-making process, highlighting the involvement of parents and the board of management as well as the Kerry Diocese.
The transition is not merely a symbolic shift but also carries profound implications for the school’s educational philosophy and values. While the curriculum remains unchanged, the introduction of the Goodness Me Goodness You Programme reflects a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Eilish elaborated on this, noting, “We currently have children that do not take part in our religion classes, they do other work, and now they will be fully included in our school day.”
Eilish emphasised that, “the primary school curriculum is the same as all other schools but the Goodness Me Goodness You which is the 30 minute per day patrons programme enables the holistic development of the child, supporting them to grow and flourish as active participants in their learning and in their communities.” The teaching methodologies will also see a shift towards greater emphasis on philosophy and critical thinking. Ann O’Dwyer, Director of School, Youth, and Music at Kerry ETB, mentioned the importance of nurturing these skills from an early age. “A community national school aims to facilitate pupils’ thinking and debating skills and to facilitate their understanding of their own ideas and those of others,” she explained. “Philosophy helps children to reflect and think deeply about their place in their community, society, and globally.”
Community engagement has been a cornerstone of this transition, with the school actively involving local stakeholders from the outset. Meetings with parents and community gatherings provided avenues for voicing opinions and concerns.
Regarding staffing and leadership, the transition will involve support and training from Kerry ETB for current staff. While there will be no changes to the school’s facilities, the long-term vision is to develop the school further, potentially extending services such as a bus route from a local town if there are 10 or more pupils who would use the service.
There will be increased choice and new learning opportunities for pupils, both academically and socially. Measures will be in place to support students who have strong ties to the Catholic tradition of the school, including supporting Communion and Confirmation preparation after school.
As Lyreacrompane Primary School embarks on this transformative journey, the overarching goal is clear: to ensure that the school welcomes all while fostering a vibrant and inclusive learning environment. “It is wonderful place to receive a first class primary education, in beautiful quiet surroundings on the banks of the Smearlagh River and its adjoining Woodlands.” Added Ann.
If you would like to enquire about places in the school feel free to contact the Principal Eilish Lyons on (068) 48233 or email lyreschool@gmail.com.
