How our school is funded

Government Grants


Irish primary schools receive a range of grants from the Department of Education to support the day-to-day running of the school. These typically include
  • capitation grants to cover general operating costs such as heating, lighting, cleaning, insurance, and classroom resources,
  • ICT, to cover computing, software and hardware costs
  • minor works maintenance grant to cover works around the school grounds
  • Ancillary Grants - to partially cover our caretakers wages
  • School Meal Grant - to cover school meals
  • Books Grant - to cover the books for 
While these grants provide essential funding and are greatly valued, they are often based on standard allocations and may not fully reflect the rising costs of utilities, maintenance, materials, and services throughout the year. As a result, the total funding received does not always meet the full cost of operating the school, and schools may need to carefully manage budgets and, at times, seek additional voluntary contributions or fundraising support to ensure that all pupils continue to benefit from a safe, well-resourced, and supportive learning environment.

Annual Subsciptions

​Our school has an annual subscription charge of €100 per pupil. This contribution helps to cover a wide range of essential items, activities, and resources that directly benefit our students throughout the school year. While Department of Education grants support the general running of the school, they do not fully cover many of the additional costs associated with providing a broad, enriching educational experience. The annual subscription allows us to provide high-quality learning materials, access to programmes and activities, and other supports that enhance your child’s school experience. A detailed breakdown of what is included in the subscription is outlined below.
  • Personal Accident Insurance (24 hour cover, valid until 31st August 2026)
  • OLOM Homework Journal (available in school Sept)
  • Photocopying and associated costs
  • Art Materials/Equipment
  • Reading Pool of a wide genre of books         
  • Computer materials/resources/technical supports
  • Online subscriptions

Voluntary Contributions

​Voluntary contributions play an important role in supporting many of the activities and initiatives that enrich school life for our pupils. While these contributions are entirely voluntary and there is no obligation on any family to make a payment, they greatly assist the school in providing a wide range of educational, cultural, and extracurricular opportunities that may not be fully covered by Department of Education funding. We are sincerely grateful to parents and guardians who are in a position to contribute, as their support helps ensure that all children can benefit from these valuable experiences. Please see the attached letter for further details regarding voluntary contributions and how they are used within the school.

VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTION LETTER

Parents Association funding

Our Parents Association plays a vital role in supporting our school community. Throughout the year, they organise a variety of fundraising events and initiatives, generously giving their time and energy to enhance the educational experience of all pupils. The funds raised contribute towards valuable resources, activities, and improvements that benefit students across the school, while also helping to strengthen the sense of community among families, staff, and children. We are extremely grateful for the ongoing commitment and support of our Parents Association. Please see below for details of how the funds raised are used to support our students and school community.​
  • Sports lessons: Tennis and gymnastics.
  • School facilities and equipment: NEW astroturf sports pitch and athletics track (aka pitch perfect), chromebooks and the school piano.
  • Special events: Communion, Confirmation, and graduation celebrations.
  • Christmas/Holiday surprises, mulled wine reception, and the end of year ice-cream truck & treats.
  • Talks: Bike safety (kids), cyber safety, and first aid (parents)
... and lots more.