ABOUT OUR SCHOOL
Blessed Patrick O’Loughran Primary School is located in a beautiful rural setting on the outskirts of Castlecaulfield village. Since opening in April 2002, our school has provided a modern, welcoming and well-resourced learning environment where children can thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
Our bright, spacious and fully accessible school building has been designed to meet the needs of all pupils, including wheelchair access and specialist facilities for children with disabilities. The school grounds offer extensive opportunities for learning, play and recreation. Pupils in Key Stages 1 and 2 enjoy access to both tarmac and grass play areas, while our Foundation Stage children benefit from a dedicated outdoor play space that supports active, child-centred learning.
The development of our outdoor facilities reflects our commitment to providing enriching learning experiences. A community sand-based sports pitch, officially opened in 2006, is used by both the school and the wider community. Our Outdoor Classroom, Gazebo, Polytunnel and Sensory Garden provide valuable opportunities for outdoor learning, environmental education and wellbeing activities. These areas have been enhanced over time with a range of active learning resources to support creative and engaging teaching and learning.
In November 2024, we further expanded our outdoor provision with the creation of a new outdoor learning area designed to enrich children's experiences across the curriculum. In August 2025, a mobile classroom was added to accommodate our growing school population and provide additional teaching space.
At the heart of Blessed Patrick O’Loughran Primary School is a dedicated team of teachers, classroom assistants, ancillary and support staff who are committed to the education, wellbeing and personal development of every child. Working together, they bring a wealth of experience, expertise and enthusiasm, ensuring that all pupils are supported to achieve their full potential in a caring, inclusive and nurturing environment.
Guided by our core values of Respect, Kindness, Community, Equality and Faith, we strive to create a school where every child feels valued, inspired and empowered to succeed.
Our School Name
Blessed Patrick O’Loughran was born in the Parish of Donaghmore around 1577. He became a priest during a time when it was very difficult and dangerous to practise the Catholic faith in Ireland.
Fr. O’Loughran remained faithful to his beliefs despite persecution and hardship. After returning to Ireland from Europe in 1611, he was arrested because of his association with Catholic leaders and his work as a priest. He refused to give up his faith and showed great courage and determination.
On 1 February 1612, Fr. O’Loughran was executed for his beliefs alongside Bishop Conor O’Devany. His faith and bravery inspired many people, and his example continues to be remembered today.
In 1992, Pope Saint John Paul II beatified Fr. Patrick O’Loughran as one of the Irish Martyrs, recognising his courage and commitment to God.
We are proud that our school bears the name of Blessed Patrick O’Loughran. His example inspires us to live out our school values of Respect, Kindness, Community, Equality and Faith each day.
School Life and Learning
At Blessed Patrick O’Loughran Primary School, we are committed to providing a rich, broad and engaging curriculum that nurtures the spiritual, physical, intellectual, emotional and social development of every child. We strive to create a happy, caring and inclusive environment where children feel valued, supported and inspired to achieve their full potential.
Alongside developing strong foundations in literacy and numeracy, we place great emphasis on building confidence, self-esteem, resilience and respect for others. Our pupils take pride in achieving high standards of work, behaviour and attendance, reflecting our school values of Respect, Kindness, Community, Equality and Faith. Our distinctive brown and gold uniform is worn with pride and helps foster a strong sense of belonging within our school community.
A wide range of enrichment opportunities enhances the curriculum and supports the development of the whole child. Pupils participate in educational visits, Gaelic games, soccer, hurling, gymnastics, drama, swimming and dance, providing valuable opportunities for personal growth, teamwork and interaction with other schools. Annual events such as Sports Day and the prestigious Fr. Finnegan Cup Gaelic Football Tournament, which welcomes neighbouring schools, are highlights of the school calendar. Pupils also showcase their talents through Christmas productions, local feiseanna, quizzes and a variety of external competitions.
As a proud Health Promoting School, we place a strong emphasis on the wellbeing of our pupils and staff. We maintain positive partnerships with local schools, parish communities and post-primary schools, helping to support smooth transitions and strengthen community links. Each year, our school community actively supports a number of charitable causes, encouraging pupils to develop a sense of social responsibility and compassion for others.
Partnership with Parents
We recognise that parents are their child's first educators and value the strong partnerships we build with families. Parents are encouraged to play an active role in school life and their child's learning journey.
We provide a range of opportunities for parents to engage with the school, including:
A Primary 1 Induction Meeting prior to children starting school.
Curriculum and information workshops for parents.
Parent-Teacher Meetings during the first term to discuss children's progress and wellbeing.
Information sessions for Primary 6 parents to support the transfer process to post-primary education.
Detailed written reports issued annually.
Regular communication is maintained through our text messaging service, Microsoft Sways, social media platforms and home-school communication channels, ensuring parents remain informed about school news, activities and achievements.
Parent Support Group
Our Parent Support Group plays a valuable role in school life, working in partnership with staff to support school events, community activities and fundraising initiatives. Through their dedication and generosity, significant funds have been raised to enhance learning experiences and school facilities.
Recent fundraising projects have contributed towards:
Interactive boards in every classroom
Laptops and iPads
School sports equipment and team kit
Playground resources
Educational visits and school trips
Their ongoing support helps enrich the educational experience of all our pupils and strengthens the sense of community that is central to our school.
Board of Governors
Our Board of Governors is fully committed to the continued development and success of Blessed Patrick O’Loughran Primary School. Governors take a keen interest in all aspects of school life and work closely with staff to ensure the highest standards of education, care and wellbeing for every child. Their guidance, expertise and unwavering support play an important role in helping our school flourish.
