Scoil an Ghleanna, Scoil Náisiúnta Phobail (Scoil an Ghleanna SNP), one of Kerry Education and Training Board’s 4 Community National Schools (CNS) has proudly been awarded Gaeltacht School status, establishing it as the only Gaeltacht Community National School in Ireland. This landmark designation recognises the school’s dedication to fostering the Irish language and culture within the community, advancing national efforts to preserve and promote the language.
Sorcha Ní Chatháin, Priomhoide Scoil an Ghleanna SCP spoke of her excitement about the news:
“Tá na scoláirí agus pobal na scoile, mar aon le pobal An Ghleanna, mórtasach as an stádas oifigiúil a bronnadh ar Scoil an Ghleanna Scoil Náisiúnta Phobail le gairid. Ba é díogras na scoláirí agus foireann na scoile, mar aon le tacaíocht na dtuismitheoirí, ag comhoibriú lena chéile, a chinntigh toradh fónta na scéime faonár ghnóthaigh an scoil an gradam eisceachtúil seo. Gabhaim buíochas go pearsanta le gach éinne a chuidigh linn an próiséas seo a thabhairt chun críche, chun leas na Gaeilge agus chun tairbhe na Gaeltachta. Glacaim buíochas ó chroí chomh maith go pearsanta le mo leathbhádóirí ar fhoireann na scoile, as a ndílseacht agus a dtiomántacht.”
Scoil an Ghleanna Scoil Náisiúnta Phobail, supported by Kerry ETB, has long embraced an immersive, language-rich environment where students experience daily life through the medium of Irish. This Gaeltacht School status will allow the school to expand its commitment to the promotion of the Irish language, providing learners with a vibrant educational experience.
Ann O’Dwyer, Director of Schools, Youth and Music with Kerry ETB, expressed her delight at the school’s achievement: “Achieving Gaeltacht School status is a tremendous milestone for Scoil an Ghleanna. This recognition celebrates the dedication of the school community in creating an environment where the Irish language truly thrives. As the only Gaeltacht Community National School in the country, the school sets a unique and inspiring example, proving how education can be a powerful force in sustaining and celebrating our language and heritage.”
Pádraig Ó Donnabháin, Cathaoirleach of the schools Board of Management added, Cùis bhróid agus áthais do Bhord Bainistǐochta Scoil an Ghleanna Scoil Náisiùnta Phobail go bhfuil aitheantas tugtha don scoil mar Scoil Ghaeltachta faoin Roinn Oideachais. Tâthar buíoch d’fhoireann na scoile as a ndíograis i gcónaí ar son na scoláirí. Moltar na scoláirí dá gcomhoibriú agus dá ndílseacht in imeachtaí uilig na scoile.
With its new Gaeltacht School status, Scoil an Ghleanna SNP will gain access to additional resources designed for Gaeltacht schools, including enhanced language programmes and cultural supports that deepen students’ connection to Irish traditions. This recognition marks a transformative step, reinforcing the school’s role as a cornerstone of language and culture and Kerry ETB’s values of offering a quality, inclusive education.
