Message from the Board of Management
We wish to share important news regarding the future of John Scottus National School. In September 2025, our school will be relocating to 157 Rathmines Road Lower, Rathmines, Dublin 6. We understand that this news will be unexpected, and we want to immediately emphasise our commitment to the continued success of our school and our students. While a change of location presents challenges, it also offers new opportunities. We acknowledge the impact this will have on our school community, and while there will be some adjustments, our absolute priority is to minimise disruption and maintain the exceptional educational experience that defines John Scottus National School.
The Board of Trustees, the Board of Management, and the Principal are working diligently to ensure a smooth transition with minimal impact on our school community. Our focus remains on continuing to provide a nurturing and high-quality learning environment for every child. We are dedicated to maintaining the strong sense of community and the values that are central to John Scottus National School. We are working hard to ensure that the ethos and quality of education you expect will continue at our new location. We are confident that by working together, we can build an even stronger future for our school in our new location. Your partnership is invaluable, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you.
We understand that you will have many questions regarding this news, so we have set out below a number of questions and answers that we hope will give you the information you need. There may be questions we have not thought of, so we will make every effort to update the questions and answers as time progresses towards the move.
Questions & Answers
Why is the school relocating?
In September 2025, John Scottus National School will relocate to Rathmines Road Lower, Dublin 6. The school is relocating to provide students and staff with improved facilities, better accessibility, and opportunities for growth. This move will mark the first time in 40 years that the school will have its own dedicated building. The relocation aligns with our long-term vision to enhance the learning environment and overall school experience.
Why now?
Our present location is no longer an option as the landlord has decided not to renew the lease because they want sole occupancy to give them more flexibility in the use of the building. This was recently brought to a head due to insurance demands to upgrade the electrical system in the short term at enormous expense. The School of Philosophy and Economic Science (the landlord) has supported the work of education in John Scottus with the provision of teachers, buildings and financial support over the last 40 years, for which we are very grateful. It will continue to support us in the ethos and development of the broader school.
When did the school become aware that the present location is no longer an option?
The decision came suddenly when we were informed by the landlord that they would not be renewing the lease agreement. This prompted immediate action to find a suitable new location to protect the future of the school and that could support our long-term goals. The Board of Trustees contacted the Department of Education who have been very supportive, and after discussions, we were offered this new location in Rathmines.
What other options were explored before deciding to move to this particular location?
Due to the urgency of the situation, the school had to act fast to secure new premises. The Board of Trustees worked with the Department of Education to evaluate all possible options. Rathmines was selected as it offered an existing school premises with space, transport links, and the potential for growth, all within a short distance from our current location. Once Rathmines was confirmed, the school began taking the steps required to carry out an assessment of the premises and plan renovations to update classrooms, improve facilities, and ensure the building meets all health and safety standards.
What are the long-term plans for the school at the new location? Is this a permanent solution?
Yes, this move offers the first dedicated building in 40 years. It provides long-term stability that we've never had before. It gives us control over the space and room for the school to grow. The move is being funded by the Department of Education, and as the school will become the building’s permanent resident, this brings long-term savings. It ends the uncertainty of leasing and finally gives us the chance to shape a space that’s truly ours.
What assurances can the Board of Trustees and the Board of Management give about the stability and future of the school?
With ownership of the Rathmines premises secured by the Department of Education and long-term planning in place, the move ensures a sustainable and secure future. The Board of Trustees and the Board of Management are committed to transparency and continuous improvement.
What are the costs associated with the move, and how will these be covered?
The move is being funded by the Department of Education, and as the school will become the building’s permanent tenant, this brings long-term savings. There will be no requests made to parents, guardians or caregivers to assist with costs associated with the move.
Will parents and teachers be asked to assist in any way with the move?
Staff will be involved in setting up their own classrooms. Parents will not be expected to participate in the physical move, but volunteers may be invited to help with setting up spaces or welcoming families before the new term begins.
Will there be any disruption to learning during the move? How will this be minimised?
The move is timed to coincide with the summer break, avoiding any disruption to the school year. Packing, transport, and setup will all occur after term ends and before the new school year begins.
Communication
What communication channels will be used to keep the Community informed about the move and its progress? How often will updates be provided?
Updates will continue via email, school meetings with staff, parents, guardians and caregivers, Q&A sessions. This dedicated page on the school website will also include Q&As, photos, and updates. Expect regular updates as key milestones are reached.
Who can we contact if we have further questions or concerns?
You can reach out to the school office or email the principal directly. In order to keep the regular school email free for day-to-day activity, all of your queries relating to the move may be directed to our dedicated address: johnscottusrathmines@johnscottus.ie.
How will the school ensure a smooth transition for the students? What supports will be in place?
Support will include: pre-move assemblies and discussions; site tours (if possible); transition activities in the classroom; orientation in the upcoming terms.
Questions about the new location
Where is the new school located?
The new school is located at 157 Rathmines Road Lower, Dublin 6, D06 R621. It is a former primary school site, offering a dedicated and spacious setting for our community.
Until as recently as June 2024, the premises was home to Harcourt Terrace Educate Together National School.
What is the surrounding community like? Are there any potential issues or benefits associated with the new location?
Rathmines is a vibrant, school and family-friendly area with access to community services, leisure facilities, and public parks. The nearby Swan Leisure Centre provides a convenient option for school swimming lessons. The central location also opens up more opportunities for cultural and educational outings. Rathmines Library itself hosts various events and activities, including lectures, exhibitions, and children's events.
The Swan Shopping Centre houses several amenities, such as a cinema, supermarket, dentist, butchers, bookstores, and clothing stores. St. Mary's College in Rathmines has an all-weather floodlit sports facility that is used for GAA, soccer, and rugby. This facility is available for use by community-based sports clubs.
Can we visit the new premises?
At present, the new school is undergoing renovations, so visits are not yet possible. We are working with contractors and hope to arrange a visit before reopening. In the meantime, you can take a virtual tour of the premises.
More space, more scope!
The new school will offer: interactive panels in every classroom; a new dedicated Assembly and PE hall; larger Special Education Teaching (SET) rooms; a dedicated Aistear room; a meditation room; and increased space options for Afterschool activities. These features represent a significant upgrade from the current site, which was shared and had more limited space.
Niall Callaghan, Principal, John Scottus National School
"We may be moving location, but we will maintain all that makes us unique. Students will continue to receive the same National School Curriculum as they have at John Scottus. The school ethos and values will remain unchanged and continue to be taught through assemblies and philosophy classes."
Questions about the premises
What will the facilities be like at the new premises (classrooms, specialist rooms, etc.)? How do they compare to the current facilities?
The new school which is significantly bigger than our current building, will feature: much larger classrooms and space for the children; larger play area; interactive panels in every classroom; a dedicated PE hall; larger Special Education Teaching (SET) rooms; a dedicated Aistear (early years learning) room; a library; and a dedicated meditation room. These features represent a significant upgrade from the current site, which was shared and had more limited space.
What is the condition of the new premises? Will it require any renovations or upgrades?
The building was used as a national school as recently as June 2024. An assessment is currently underway and the building is undergoing renovations to update classrooms, improve facilities, and ensure the building meets all health and safety standards. We are working with contractors and the Department of Education to ensure the space is modern, functional, and welcoming.
Will the new location be ready in time for the start of the next school year?
The move to Rathmines is scheduled for the summer holidays of 2025, with the first day of class in the new location on September 1st, 2025. Contingency plans are also being prepared in case any areas are delayed, but no space will be used unless it is fully ready and safe. The school at Northumberland Road will remain open and fully operational at its current site until the end of June 2025.
What are the safety and security measures in place at the new location?
All safety systems will be brought up to code during renovations. The new location will include secured entry points, monitored exits, and updated fire safety and emergency response protocols.
Will there be space for all the current extracurricular activities and clubs?
Yes. In fact, the expanded indoor and outdoor spaces will allow us to grow our extracurricular offerings, not reduce them. More room means more clubs, sports, performances, and creative activities.
Questions about Transport and Travel
How far is that from the present location?
Approximately 10 minutes by car or 14 minutes by bicycle.
Will there be any school transport services?
Yes, depending on demand, we will operate a free bus service from Northumberland Road directly to the new location.
What are the public transport options near the new school?
The area is well-served by public transportation, including several bus routes (14, 15, 15A, 15B, 65, 65B, 83, 83A, 140, 142, S2) and Luas stops (Ranelagh, Charlemont, Beechwood, and Cowper) within walking distance. A transport plan is being developed, including drop-off/pick-up locations.
The school’s values, culture, curriculum, and staff will remain the same.
The physical space may change, but the heart of the school; our community, our approach to teaching, and our child-centred ethos, will not. The school’s values of mindfulness, attention, enquiry, unity, resilience are foundational and will be deeply embedded in the new space, just as they are now.
How will this move impact the students' well-being and social connections?
Continuity is key. Classes, teachers, and routines will remain consistent. The move is being framed as an exciting opportunity, and supports are in place to ensure students stay connected and supported. Class groupings will remain the same, unless a family chooses not to continue with the school. We are doing everything we can to preserve the consistency and familiarity students need.
Will the school feel the same in the new building?
It will feel familiar and new all at once. The people, the ethos, the care, those will not change. That said, we know the emotional connection to the current space runs deep, and we’re committed to honouring the spirit of the old while embracing the opportunity of the new. We’re involving staff and students in shaping that.
School Life in the New Premises
How will the relocation affect my child’s education?
Children will continue to receive the same National School Curriculum as they have at John Scottus. The school ethos and values will remain unchanged and continue to be taught through assemblies and philosophy classes. The teaching style of the school will not change.
Will there be any changes to subjects?
All National School Curriculum subjects will remain the same: English, Irish, Maths, History, Geography, Science, Art, Drama, Music, SPHE, and PE. Philosophy & Sanskrit will continue as additional subjects. PE will take place twice a week during school hours, with the additional PE session moving to Afterschool.
Will there be any changes to the school day?
There will be some adjustments: Opening will remain at 8am with the start time remaining at 8:15 am. The end of school day will be 2:15pm (1.15pm for Junior & Senior Infants). Part of the afternoon schedule will move into after-school care, e.g. additional PE sessions migrating into Afterschool. This small adjustment supports a smoother transition into Afterschool enrichment.
Will there be any changes to class sizes?
We hope to welcome all families to our new school. Class sizes are expected to be similar to this year. However, we understand that the change may not suit all families, which could result in some adjustments. The goal is to maintain current class sizes, which are below the national average (<23 students per class). The larger space allows flexibility to accommodate all current students and potentially welcome new families if needed.
Will students lose access to things during school hours that they used to have?
Some activities that were part of the longer day, like additional PE, and additional art classes will shift into the Afterschool period, which will begin directly after the shorter core school day. Class trips will remain. We are committed to keeping the same level of enrichment, just in a slightly adjusted schedule.
Impact on Staff
Will there be any changes to staffing as a result of the move?
We anticipate that all permanent staff will remain. However, as with families, some individual changes may occur depending on personal circumstances, though continuity is a priority. We will meet with all staff to ascertain their views.
How will the move affect teachers' commutes and work-life balance?
Staff will be supported in adjusting to the new location. While some may face longer commutes, the new facilities and working environment are a significant upgrade, and every effort is being made to retain our dedicated team. Staff will be able to avail of a morning shuttle bus from Northumberland Road. A survey to determine demand for the bus will issue to the community.
Will there be car-parking for all staff?
Yes. There will be secure free car-parking on the premises for all staff.
Lunches
Will the school lunches change?
We will have a new, spacious lunchroom available to us, ensuring our commitment to providing hot and enjoyable meals. We will have catering staff onsite to serve vegetarian meals to the children. We will be availing of the government funding from the Hot School Meals Programme, with menus to accommodate children with food intolerances and allergies, including options that are gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian.
Afterschool
How will Afterschool work?
Afterschool will begin after the new finish time of 2:15pm (1.15pm for Junior and Senior Infants) and will run to 5:15pm or potentially run to an extended time of 6:00pm. Afterschool is optional but will include structured enrichment, not just care. You will still be able to access the full experience — just through a slightly different structure. Some school activities (e.g. additional PE) will be integrated into the afterschool program. The new location will provide even greater space for clubs, sports, and activities.
What about swimming?
We are currently in talks with the local pool next to the new site, with the intention of continuing swimming as part of Afterschool activities. We will share more details as soon as we have confirmation.
Contributions will end
Will parent contributions change?
Yes, John Scottus National School will no longer rely on voluntary parent contributions as a source of finance. One of the conditions of being given the new premises is that the contributions come to an end. Core school services will remain free.
If contributions are ending, how will the school maintain its quality?
The school will continue to be State supported as a national school, with the same staffing and curriculum. Afterschool activities may have separate costs, but the core school experience will remain high-quality and accessible to all.
Will I now have to pay for things I didn’t before?
No. These elements will continue to be part of the experience, whether during school or Afterschool hours. The only additional costs will be for school trips, Afterschool clubs, or swimming, as they are now.
Will I have to pay for anything during the school day?
No, except for optional school trips or swimming lessons.
This move represents an exciting new chapter for our school. We are confident that our new premises will provide an even better environment for our students to learn, grow, and thrive, while retaining the unique spirit that makes our school so special. We will keep you updated on the progress of the move and will provide further information regarding timelines and any logistical details in due course. Thank you for your continued support and understanding.