On Wednesday 24th June 2026 we bid a fond farewell to our 6th class students on their graduation. We had a lovely graduation presentation in the school with the 6th class children and their families. Congratulations to our graduates and we wish them all the very best as they start a new journey in Secondary School. Click on the link below to see the graduates leave the school for one last time! 

https://www.ardcathns.ie/media/2025_2026/grad2026.mov

Graduates , don't forget us and remember to drop by and say hello! 

 

Mrs.Daly and Bernie delivered the beautiful items made by the children and our wonderfull volunteers to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda for the neonatal ward. Please see below the thank you letter received from the hospital.

 

 

 

Music Generation Roadshow

On Thursday 11th June 2026, we welcomed the very talented musicans from Music Gerneration to our school. They children joined in with the singing and clapping and even some dancing! They all had a great time!  https://www.ardcathns.ie/media/2025_2026/VIDEO-2026-06-11-11-10-14.mp4

After a lovely morning of music and songs the ice-cream man came to the school and we all enjoyed an ice-cream even though the sun wasn't it out it was dry!

 

 

 

Sports Day 2026!

 

On Wednesday 10th June 2026 we had a great sports day! Between the showers, the children took part in many races and activities. They enjoyed sack races, egg & spoon, tug o' war, high jump, hungry hippo games and many more exicting fun games.

 

 

 

Sports Day 2026!

Sports Day is scheduled to take place on Wednesday 10th June 2026. The children have been assigned a colour to wear on the day. 

 

School Tours 2026!

On May 21st and May 22nd 2026 our 5th & 6th class students headed to Tanagh Adventure Centre in Co. Monaghan for an overnight school tour. The children took part in watersports, rock climbing, night forest walks and may more team building activities. They all had a great time and it was the highlight of the year!

On Tuesday 2nd June 2026, our students from Junior Infants to 4th class went to Navan Adventure Centre for their school tour. Thankfully the weather stayed dry and the children enjoyed a fun day of outdoor activities.

 

Last Day of Knitting

Today, Wednesday 27th May 2026, we had our last kitting lessons with the wonderful volunteers who gave up their time to teach the children from 4th to 6th class the art of knitting. The children really enjoyed their weekly knitting and they have made soem lovely pieces. With the help of the knitters we have made beautiful items for the premature babies. We will give these beautiful creations to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda for the neonatal ward. 

 

 

 

 

 

Basketball at St. Patrick's N.S!

Big thanks to Mr. McGroggan who has been teaching the children from 3rd to 6th class Basketball at break time over the last few months. The children have really enjoyed playing basketball and learning a new sport. We were invited to Mount Hanover school on May 27th and May 28th for a friendly match. The children thoroughly enjoyed their day out!

 

 

Biodiversity Day 2026!

On Tuesday 19th May 2026, the children visited a local farm for biodiversity day. The children learned so much and really enjoyed the time spent at Pat's farm. Many thanks to Pat Brangan for inviting us and for looking after us so well.

 

 

 

 

 

First Holy Communion 2026!

Many congratulations to the children in 2nd class who made their First Holy Communion on Saturday 16th May 2026. Mrs. O'Sullivan, Ms. Nolan and all the children worked very hard in preparing for the First Holy Communion and they were all fantastic with their prayers during the mass. Many thanks to Fr . Steve for providing a beautiful mass.Thank you to Ms. Friel, Ruth, Gillian and the children in the choir who provided beautiful music on this very special day. A big thank you to the Parents Association for preparing the school hall with beautiful decorations and for providing food, drinks and treats for all the children and their families.

Coillte Schools Photography Competition

Our students in Ladybirds and Butterflies recently took part in the Coillte Schools Photography Competition as part of National Tree Week, showcasing their creativity and appreciation for the natural world. We’re thrilled to announce that our school has been awarded a Special Merit Award in recognition of the wonderful effort and imagination shown by all who participated.

This achievement reflects the enthusiasm and talent of our students, as well as their growing awareness of the beauty and importance of our environment. A huge well done to everyone involved — your hard work and creativity have truly paid off!

Thank you to Coillte for this recognition and for encouraging young people to connect with nature through photography.

Edibles

This year, students have been busy growing a wide range of edible plants — from peas and potatoes to raspberries and beetroot, even creating their own homemade relishes. What started as a small project has blossomed into a hands-on learning experience that connects classroom lessons with real life.

Growing food teaches so much more than gardening. Students learn about sustainability, nutrition, and where their food comes from. They develop patience, responsibility, and teamwork as they care for plants from seed to harvest. There’s also a real sense of pride in picking something you’ve grown yourself — and even more joy in tasting it!

Projects like this encourage healthier eating habits, spark curiosity about the environment, and show young people the value of self-sufficiency. 

From soil to plate, this initiative is helping students grow not just food — but skills, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for the world around them.

 

Lá Glas

Today 20th March 2026, we celebrated Lá Glas. The children arrived to school in green and we enjoyed a céilí in the hall and a play performed by our 2nd class students. We then headed outside for the school parade. Thankfully the sun was shining and the children had a great day!

https://www.ardcathns.ie/media/2025_2026/IMG_1701%20(1).MOV

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

International Conference

Pupils in 3rd and 4th Class participated in an interactive video conference on Tuesday, 10th March, with their partner school, Western CT Academy for International Studies Elementary Magnet School, located at 201 University Boulevard, Danbury, Connecticut, USA.

In preparation for the conference, each pupil was asked to bring an item, or a photograph of an item, that reflects a personal interest or holds particular significance to them. Additionally, one or two pupils were selected to introduce the class and school. This introduction included a brief description of the school and its distinctive features, along with a photograph and/or a map of Ireland highlighting the school’s location.

Pupils also collaborated to prepare a group statement addressing the question: “What do we hope to gain from this cultural exchange?” A designated pupil was chosen to present the group’s key ideas during the conference.

“The Harp That Once Through Tara’s Halls.”

In preparation for their upcoming visit to the Hill of Tara, our pupils engaged in a meaningful and enriching learning experience centered on Ireland’s rich cultural and historical heritage. As part of this preparation, they had the opportunity to view an artifact—a recording of the traditional song “The Harp That Once Through Tara’s Halls.” This activity allowed the students to connect more deeply with the historical significance of Tara as a symbolic seat of ancient Irish kingship and cultural identity.

The children responded with great interest and curiosity, demonstrating an eagerness to understand the stories and traditions associated with the site they will soon visit. Through explored themes of history, memory, and national identity, and began to appreciate how art and music can preserve the past.

This preparatory work has not only enhanced their knowledge but has also fostered a sense of anticipation and respect for the historical importance of the Hill of Tara. The experience has encouraged active engagement, thoughtful discussion, and a deeper appreciation for the cultural narratives that shape Ireland’s past and present.

 

World Book Day 

 

Today , Thursday the 5th March 2026 we celebrated World Book Day. The children arrived to school in some wonderful costumes dressed as their favourite character from a book. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Knitting Club

On Wednesday 4th March we launched a wonderful new initiative where students from 4th, 5th, and 6th class began knitting bonding squares for premature babies in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda. We were delighted to welcome some lovely volunteers to our school to teach the children the skills of knitting.  The children really enjoyed learning this new skill and it was lovely to see the skill of knitting past down to a new generation. The children are looking forward to continue their knitting next Wednesday.

 

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

 

 

Pancake Tuesday

Today , Tuesday 17th February 2026 we celebrated Pancake Tuesday. The children were very excited to get pancakes and they enjoyed every bit of them!

 

 

 

Valentine's Cake Sale

The parents association organised a valentine's cake sale on Friday 13th February. All the children got the chance to purchase some of the delicious cakes, cookies, donuts, rice krispie buns and cupcakes. Thank you all so much for taking the time to bake the delicous treats and for supporting the cake sale. 

 

 

Movie Evening Survey

The Student Council conducted a school-wide survey to collect student input regarding the selection of a film for the upcoming cinema evening. We value the engagement and contributions of all students who participated in the consultation process. Following a review of the survey results, ‘Bee Movie’ was identified as the most popular choice and has therefore been selected for the event. The Student Council thanks the school community for its involvement and support.

Internet Safety Day 2026

We are pleased to inform you that our school will be participating in Internet Safety Day on Tuesday, 10th February. To mark the day, a range of activities will take place across the school to promote safe, responsible, and positive use of the internet. These activities will include class-based discussions, age-appropriate learning activities, and a special focus on online safety and digital citizenship.

As part of our programme, the Student Council will play an active role by communicating our child-friendly Acceptable Usage Policy to all classes, helping to ensure that students understand how to use technology safely and responsibly. We look forward to a valuable and engaging day that reinforces the importance of staying safe online.

Dancing with Beth!

Today , 4th February 2026 , the children commenced their 6 week dance workshop today with Beth from Kidkast , the amazing school of performing arts! Beth has many years of experience and she created a fun environment at the lessons today where the children got the opportunity to express themselves through dance. The children, teachers and SNA's thoroughly enjoyed dancing today! 

 

 

Sensory Gifts

Many thanks to one of our lovely parents who kindly purchased the following sensory items for our school. The children will get great enjoyment out of these. Thank you so much!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Planting of Apple Trees

When children plant an apple tree, they are doing more than just digging a hole in the soil—they are planting hope for the future. With each seedling, they nurture not only the earth but also a vision of a greener, healthier world. That small tree will one day provide shade, clean air, and nourishing fruit, teaching them the value of patience, care, and responsibility. By planting today, they are investing in tomorrow, leaving behind a legacy of life and growth. Every apple that grows is a reminder that even the smallest hands can make a big difference in protecting our planet.

 

Student Council Certificate Presentation

Our Student Council recently presented certificates to pupils who participated in the Hill of Tara project. The project gave students the opportunity to explore the historical and cultural significance of this important Irish heritage site. The Student Council commended the pupils for their enthusiasm, creativity, and commitment throughout the project and congratulated them on their excellent work.

National Tree Week Competition

Our school has entered the Coillte National Tree Week Photography Competition. Coillte encourages schools across the country to celebrate the beauty and importance of Ireland’s trees by heading outdoors, looking around, and capturing a photograph of their favourite tree or outdoor nature space. The photo we entered was taken of a tree to the front of our school that stands as a living symbol of a significant moment in our school’s history. It was planted on the day our school extension was officially opened—an extension that marked an important step forward in our commitment to inclusion.This new space was created to support specialised classes for students with autism, providing an environment where every child is valued, understood, and given the opportunity to thrive. The planting of the tree on that day represents growth, belonging, and the nurturing of potential in all its forms. As the tree continues to grow and flourish, it reflects the values at the heart of our school community: acceptance, respect, and the belief that diversity strengthens us all. It serves as a lasting reminder that inclusion is not just a moment in time, but an ongoing commitment that shapes who we are and who we aspire to be. The morning sun rising in the background, paired with the tree, symbolises hope and the promise of a greener, more sustainable future.

Student Friendly Policies

Our Student Council has been actively analysing our school’s student-friendly policies to understand how they support learners’ academic success and overall well-being. These policies promote a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where students feel heard, respected, and motivated. Overall, student-friendly policies play a vital role in creating a positive school culture and empowering students to reach their full potential.

Horse Riding Success!

Congratulations to our fabulous student Fionn who came 1st with his team in Killossery Lodge Stud Primary Interschools competition. Well done Fionn , we are all very proud of you!

 

Hare's Corner

Our school were proud to participate in the Hare’s Corner Initiative 2026. School staff enthusiastically attended a native tree handout day, held at Meath County Council offices in Navan on Saturday, 9th January. Hare’s Corner, a biodiversity initiative led by the Burren-based landscape charity Burrenbeo Trust, was first introduced in 2024 in partnership with Meath County Council’s Biodiversity and Climate Action Offices, with support from the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The initiative takes its name from an old farming expression for an awkward or rough corner of a field, often left to nature.The 2025 program saw 197 applications submitted for a total of 602 biodiversity actions, demonstrating strong community interest in environmental stewardship.

Poster Design

Well done to all our students who designed such creative and eye-catching posters advertising our cinema evening on Friday, 6^th February. The designs clearly communicated the event details and showed great imagination, effort, and attention to visual impact

Project Design

Congratulations to all our pupils who participated in our Hill of Tara project design. These projects were designed to support students in developing a strong understanding of the historical, cultural, and archaeological significance of the Hill of Tara prior to their visit. Through this preparatory work, students were able to gain valuable background knowledge, allowing them to engage more meaningfully and thoughtfully with the site during their visit. The projects were completed to a high standard and reflect the students’ interest, effort, and commitment to learning.

 

Grandparents Day

Today, Friday 23rd January 2026 was a very exciting day. We had the priveldge to welcome many very special guests into our school. We were delighted to welcome so many Grandparents , Grandaunts, Granduncles and other members of families to Grandparents Day. We started the morning with a beautiful school mass and the children's choir were angelic singers and sang beautifully, the children that read the prayers and readings did so with great confidence and clarity and the children who brought the gifts up to the altar did a fantastic job. Mass was followed by a cup of tea and coffee and our important guests got to enjoy some lovely performances from all of our children. After their performance the child got to sit with their family and give them some beautiful cards and art. The day was a great success and it was lovely to welcome all of the families to our school.

 

 

 

 

Student Council Competition

The Student Council is pleased to announce a project-based competition centred on the Hill of Tara, one of Ireland’s most significant historical and cultural landmarks. The competition is designed to prepare students for their upcoming educational visit to this important historical site.

Students are invited to explore the Hill of Tara through research, creativity, and critical thinking. Projects may focus on its history, archaeology, mythology, cultural importance, or its relevance in modern Ireland. A range of formats is welcome, including written projects, visual displays, models, or digital presentations. This competition offers an excellent opportunity to showcase academic ability, creativity, and independent learning. The closing date for entries is the 23rd January. Further details and submission guidelines will be provided by the Student Council. We encourage all interested students to participate.

School Hatching Programme

On Monday 5th January 2026, the children returned from their Christmas break with a lovely surprise. We have five chicks watching to hatch. The children are very excited to welcome the chicks in the coming days. 

On Wednesday 7th January 2026, there was great excitement when the children arrived to school. Overnight 3 of the chicks were hatched. At 11am today another chick hatched and we now are just waiting on one more to hatch. Click link below to see a short video of the chick hatching.

 

https://www.ardcathns.ie/media/2025_2026/CHICK%20VIDEO%20070126.mp4

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

Oxigen Environmental Sustainable Waste

 

We were delighted to receive a Certificate of Appreciation from Oxigen Environmental Waste Management for are commitment to sustainable waste disposal.

 

 

 

 

On Tuesday 16th December 2025, the children enjoyed a trip to the TLT Theatre to watch the Christmas Pantomime, Robin Hood and the Adventures Far Far Away. They all had a great time and enjoyed their day out! 

 

   

 

       

 

 

 

This week Parents, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, Siblings , Neighbours and friends were all welcomed to our Christmas Extravaganza. The children from junior and senior infants were outstanding in their production of The Nativity. All of the other children performed their plays, songs with great enthusiasm and delivered exceptional performaces. We are very proud of all the children that graced the stage on the matinee show on Wednesday 10th Decemeber and on the evening show 11th December 2025. We would like to thank all of those who attended the shows and supported the raffle. Again thank you to all of our raffle sponsors, we greatly appreciate the support of all the local businesses , parents and staff who donated to the raffle. The final figure raised on the night was €5,115 , this money will be spent on resources.

 

 

A big thank you to all who has donated a Raffle Prize.

    Staff of St. Patrick’s N.S

The Parents Association

The Pillo Hotel

Murray & Sons Coaches

Adrian Dunne Pharmacy Ashbourne

The Lunch Bag

Platin Grain Company Ltd.

TLT Theatre

The Snail Box

Scholastic

Tesco

Brangans Butchers

Aura Leisure Centre

The Grafton Barber

Tayto

Haven Pharmacy Duleek

Skin Health Studio

Homemade Crumbs

Clonalvy Stables

BEO

Parents Donations

 

 

Basketball 

 

Thank you to Mr. McGroggan for doing Basketball with the children from 4th, 5th & 6th class during lunch time. The children had a great time and enjoyed every minute!

 

 

 

Child Protection: Children's Voice

In December our Student Council distributed a survey to gauge opinions as regards child protection matters. When students participate in decision-making, the school environment becomes more transparent, inclusive, and protective. Students learn their rights and responsibilities.

Science Week - CPR Training

This week is Science Week and we were delighted to welcome our local First Reponders to our school on Wednesday 12th November 2025. The First Reponders demonstrated CPR training and the children were very keen to learn this life saving technique. Thank you to our wonderful local First Reponders for giving up your time to come to our school. 

 

 

 

                                                                                              

 

Lámh

Our second lámh sign was introduced at assembly on the 3rd November. 

St. Patrick's Schoolstars Superstars!

Many congratulations to our super talented students, Claire, Eva and Oscar for reaching the final of the Schoolstars talent competition. They successfully got through the heats and the semi-finals stage to reach the final which was held on Wednesday 5th November in the TLT. They were greatly supported by fellow students and staff and we are all so proud of their great achievement, keep up the singing and dancing- they are definitely future superstars! 

 

   

 

 

 

Lámh

Lámh was developed in the early 1980s in order to ensure there was a standard manual or key word sign system in Ireland for those that require signs to support their communication. It is now used by many people throughout Ireland in their daily home, education and work settings. Each week pupils will be introduced to a new lámh sign at assembly. Our initial sign was 'hello' which involves placing the dominant hand L shape, palm downwards, fingers sideways, the moving hand from side of forehead outwards. Members from our Student Council will ensure that the sign posters are on display in all classrooms and that children are familiar with the signs. 

Halloween Fancy Dress!

Today Thursday 23rd October 2025 was a very spooky scary day in St. Patrick's N.S. We had a visit from Witches, Ninja's , Minions, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Princesses, Mermaids, Mummies, Dead Footballers, Demon hunters, Woodie from Toy Story, Spiderman, the headless horse man, spiders, The Simpsons, Gargamel, The Smurfs, Aliens, Clowns, Pirates and many many more scary characters. Congratulations to the children below who won best costume and all received a homework pass. The children enjoyed a Halloween Disco and we wish you all a safe and happy halloween break.

 

 

 

 

 

Parents Associaton Halloween Bake Sale!

The Halloween Bake Sale on Friday 17th October was a great success. The children were very busy making so many super scary halloween cakes,cookies, brownies and many more Halloween Treats. Thank you all so much for supporting the bake sale!

       

 

 

 

Road Safetly Authority Talk!

On Wednesday thet 15th October 2025, the children received a very important talk from the Road Safety Authority. The children received a pencil and the safe cross code leaflet for great listening. Many thanks to the RSA for visiting our school.

 

 

 

 

 

Girls GAA Semi-Finalists!

Many congratulations to our girls GAA team on a fantastic win today 14^th October 2025. They have secured their place in the semi- finals beating Curraha in a great match. The girls showed great skill and team work. Wishing the girls, the very best of luck in their semi-final match this Friday 17^th October against Boyerstown.

 

 

 

 

Visit from Minister McEntee

The children welcomed Minister McEntee the Minister for Education and Youth to our school today 13th October 2025. The children greeted Minister McEntee with a beautiful guard of honour and Minster McEntee took the time to stop and talk to the children as she entered the school. She praised the children for their manners and she was delighted for the warm welcome into our school. We had assembly in the hall with Minister McEntee and some of the children prepared a presentation and delivered it with great professionalism. Minister Mc. Entee then enjoyed a tour around our school and she visited all of the children in their classrooms. We thank Minister McEntee for taking the time to visit our school today.

 

 

Boys GAA Team

Congratualtions to our boys GAA team who made it to the semi-final today. They played a great match, showing great skills and team work but unfortuantely it was not our day and Nobber have secured their place in the final. Well done boys , a great achievement to reach the semi finals and we are all very proud of you!

 

 

 

 

Student Council: Child Safeguarding in Our School

Our student council were proud to launch their child friendly safeguarding statement on the 6^th October. Safeguarding is what we do in our school to keep children safe. A copy of the statement will be displayed in all classrooms as well as predominant places in our school building. At assembly, Mrs Daly explained to our school community that every school has a person in charge of child safeguarding. This person is called the Designated Liaison Person or DLP. The DLP for our school is Mrs Daly.

Student Council: Classroom Design

In September our Student Council circulated classroom design templates to classrooms throughout the school. Students and teachers experience the classroom differently. Therefore, when it comes to classroom design, student input is essential. By seeing students as co-designers of the classroom, we can move from designing for our students towards designing with our students. By designing our classrooms with student input it can:

• Positively impact students’ emotions and engagement in learning

• Support students to feel empowered and understood

• Promote student ownership of the space

• Encourage students to use and interact with the spaces appropriately.

Student Council: Bí Cinnealta

Our Student Council discussed our revised Bí Cinnealta policy. Our Council agreed to promote the following, to:

• Be kind: Treat others the way you would like to be treated.
• Speak up: Tell a teacher, parent, or trusted adult if you see or experience bullying.
• Support others: Stand with someone who is being bullied, include them in games or groups.
• Don’t join in: Even laughing at bullying can make it worse.

Our key message for the school community is that bullying is never okay. Together, we can stop it by choosing kindness, respect, and courage.

Student Council: Fundraising Initiatives

Following a Student Council meeting on 24/9/25 it was decided, after consultation with Mrs Daly, to organise another cinema evening. The finer details will be discussed at upcoming meetings. The Council have decided that the fundraiser will fund a day trip to the Hill of Tara. The Hill ofTara, the ancient inauguration site of the High Kings of Ireland is an evocative place, celebrated in myth and legend. 

Student Council

Our new Student Council representatives were elected at assembly on Monday, 15th September. A Student Council is a representative structure for students, through which they can become involved in the affairs of the school, working in partnership with school management, staff and parents for the benefit of the school and its students.

ArtLink Project

We are delighted to announce that two of our pupils have represented Ireland in the international art exchange programme, ArtLink. The project facilitates innovative arts-based exchanges between classrooms around the world. These exchanges teach global competency by promoting awareness, understanding and appreciation of other cultures, customs and traditions.

 

 

Our boys GAA team had a very successful day out on Tuesday 9th September. They were away to Trim and played a great match to come home victorious! Thanks to our captains Ross and Jakub for being great leaders and keeping the team working together. Thanks to Mr. O'Neill and Mrs. Wall for going with us, and well done to all of our players who represented the school so well. We look forward to working on our skills at lunchtime to get ready for the next match!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are delighted to welcome back all of our students and a very special welcome to our Junior Infants. Despite the weather this morning, we were greeted with so many happy smiley faces and we are looking forward to a great school year with all the children.

Junior Infants

 

Senior Infants

 

 

 

1st Class

2nd Class

3rd & 4th Class

5th & 6th Class