History

Departmental records confirm that St. Joseph’s N.S. officially opened on 12^th July 1962 after being built to replace Templeterrace N.S. which was located beside the Church of the Immaculate Conception.

Mr. Séamus Conneely who was the principal in Templeterrace N.S. at the time of its closure became the first principal of this school.

Séamus was succeeded by Ann Tully in 1977 and Helen Kelly, the present principal was appointed on Ann’s retirement in 2003.

In 2006, a major renovation/ extension project was completed with the addition of a new classroom, office, staff room and storeroom and the complete refurbishment of the old classroom and the rest of the school. This project also included extensive levelling of the school’s site, the removal of the steps which were the normal means of access to the school and the provision of a tarmacadam play area and driveway.

In 2008, a 600 metre square all-weather pitch was installed and this was followed by an 800 metre square all-weather pitch in 2010.

In December 2012, the school celebrated its 50^th Anniversary and this celebration also coincided with the recording of our Nativity play by RTE.

Memoir written by Séamus Conneely on the occasion of our 50th Anniversary Celebration in December 2012:

I began my teaching career as the principal of Templeterrace N.S. on the 25^th September 1961. This was my first post as a freshly minted graduate of St. Patrick’s Training College, Drumcondra. My co-worker, Mary Theresa Harrison, was a newly appointed assistant.

As the school manager, the late Fr J.J. Harte, had given me a tour of the school the previous evening, I was somewhat familiar with the surroundings when I entered the school the following morning. The pupils were very mannerly, helpful and very enthusiastic about their work. But they also participated gleefully in other activities. We produced our own Christmas concert, a spectacle which was enjoyed by all.

On the 12^th July 1962, we moved into our new school, St. Joseph’s. This was a very special day for all involved but particularly for the pupils and staff. We now had a fine new building with all the modern conveniences and amenities. It had a spacious playground and a hard surface for games and other activities. It also had an open space for the younger pupils to create their own games.

I’ve always had a great interest in the development of the Gaelic games and sport in my school as they provide great benefits to the pupils. This emphasis on sport represents its importance as a healthy pastime for youngsters, one which develops their skills, encourages them and promotes a pride in their locality. We participated in inter-school competitions and competed in track and field events. The Tireragh sports competition would have been one of the highlights of the year for us.

With the founding of the Juvenile Coiste Iomána in the mid-60s, I introduced the game of hurling into the school and the pupils rose to the challenge competing with vigour. There was time for cultural pursuits as well. The pupils participated in many concerts, the Liturgical Festival in Ballina, Irish Dancing events and the Sligo Feis. In 1966 we celebrated the 50^th anniversary of Éirí Amach na Cásca with a special ceremony in the school. The 1916 Proclamation was read as Gaeilge and also in English.

The 70’s brought some changes in the educational system as the new curriculum was introduced. Amalgamation took place in some areas. In our case, the Seafield N.S. was amalgamated with St. Joseph’s. Board of Management were established for the first time. The late Canon, Hugh Brady P.P., was the first chairman of the school board.

I must say that I have very fond memories of my time in both schools. I would like to express my sincere thanks to all who supported me in any way during my time there.

Guím gach beannacht, ádh agus rath ar phobal na scoile ar fad in bhur gComóradh 50 bliain. Fada go maire Scoil Náisiúnta Naomh Iósef ag soláthar sár-oideachas don phobal agus go maire sibh an céad.

Séamus Ó Conghaile

In November 2016, a playground featuring 8 different pieces of playground equipment was installed at the front of our school. This playground has greatly added to the play opportunities available to our children.

In March 2021, the wooded area in our school grounds was refurbished to create a sensory area which included a bug hotel, kitchen and log cabin.

In August 2021, an onsite car park was created to alleviate parking problems at school closing time while in October 2021, an outdoor classroom/playhouse was installed.

In May 2024, playground markings were installed to further enhance play experiences for our pupils during break periods.