Knocktemple National School
Principal’s Welcome
Welcome to our vibrant primary school community! We are delighted to have you visit our website and learn more about our commitment to nurturing young minds and inspiring a love for learning.
At our school, we believe every child is unique and has incredible potential. Our dedicated team of teachers and staff work together to create a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where children can grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
We are proud of our inclusive culture and the wide range of activities we offer to develop each child's talents and interests. We encourage parents and guardians to be active partners in their child's educational journey, and together, we can help our students achieve their best.
Thank you for visiting our school. We look forward to welcoming you and building a brighter future for our children.
Warm regards,
Karen Reilly
Principal
School History
Knocktemple National School (Cnoc an Teampaill — “the hill of the church”) lies in the townland of Knockatemple, parish of Munterconnaught, County Cavan. The first record of a school in the area dates to the early 19th century; in the 1821 census, a school in Knocktemple is listed. A purpose-built school at Knocktemple was erected by Fr Nicholas Conaty in 1854–56 and opened in January 1856. From 1862 onward, detailed admission registers survive, offering a rich record of the school’s long-standing role in the community.
Over the decades, the school has evolved to meet the educational needs of local children while maintaining strong ties to our rural parish and heritage. The 2000s saw significant development and modernisation, with various extensions providing additional classrooms and upgraded facilities. Today, Knocktemple NS boasts a PE Hall, basketball court, sensory room, and playground creating a vibrant and inclusive learning environment.
We also proudly have three ASD classrooms, ensuring that all pupils are supported and valued within our school community.
Knocktemple NS continues to uphold a proud tradition of learning and community spirit, deeply rooted in our local heritage while embracing the needs of a modern, inclusive education.
Meet Our Team
Principal
Karen Reilly
Deputy Principal & Special Education Teacher
Carmel McElroy
Junior Infants
Sara Clarke
Senior Infants
Amanda Rowan & Pauline Duignan
1st and 2nd Class
Simon McCaffrey
2nd and 3rd Class
Killian Flanagan
4th Class
Ruth White Lynch
5th and 6th Class
Shane McHugh
Cairde 1 (Junior ASD Class)
Catherine Cunningham & Martina McDonnell
Cairde 2 (Middle ASD Class)
Breda Mc Keon
Cairde 3 (Senior ASD Class)
Emma Reilly
Special Education Teachers
Eithne Brady
Supply Panel Teachers
Tadhg Morrissey
Adrian Prunty
Michelle Toolan
Special Needs Assistants
Maria Ward
Freda Farrelly
Brigid O'Connell
Geraldine Keogan
Sinead Hyland
Fiona Carroll
Carla McKeever
Jenna McCann
Ruth Farrelly
School Meals Coordinator
Lynn Grimes
Bus Escorts
Carmel Doughty
Cleaner/Caretaker
Helen Harten
Secretary
Shirley Reilly
Board of Management
Fr Kevin O’Donohue (Acting Chairperson)
Karen Reilly (Secretary)
Jackie Skelly (Patron's Nominee)
TBC(Staff Nominee)
Georgina Laragy (Parent Nominee)
Stephen Farrelly (Parent Nominee)
Rosemary Gilsenan (Community Nominee)
Martina Tully (Community Nominee)
Parents Association
Brendan O'Shea (Chairperson)
Paula Doyle (Secretary)
Lorna Gaule (Treasurer)
School Uniform
Our school uniform consists of a Knocktemple NS sweatshirt, polo shirt and tracksuit bottoms. School shorts and jackets are also available.
It is important that all articles of your child’s uniform are labelled to avoid them being misplaced.
Our school uniform is available to purchase here.
General Information
School Begins at: 9:20am - pupils may enter the school grounds from 9:10am
School Ends at: 3:00pm
Small Break: 11:00am - 11:20am
Lunch Break: 1:10pm - 1:30pm
Contact Details
(049) 854 7081
office@knocktemplens.ie