Bandonbridge N.S.
History of our School
The school's roots can be traced to the Ballymodan Industrial School for girls, established in 1814 on Oliver Plunkett Street in Bandon. At that time, the street was known as Shannon Street, and the school was located next to Lee's Hotel, visible on the right side of the photo. This hotel was the final stop for Michael Collins before he was shot at Béal na Bláth.
In 1922, the boys from the school on St. Patrick’s Quay, which had been the former Methodist Church, moved to Oliver Plunkett St. The school became known as ‘Ballymodan Mixed’.
The Munster Arms Hotel purchased Ballymodan school buildings in 1964. The old school on St.Patrick’s Quay served as a furniture store for many years. The old crest can be seen on the wall.
In 1960, a new school was completed on the present site and opened with Ms. Betty Beamish as principal. The school had two teachers at the time.
In 1967, a pre-fabricated building was erected and, with the amalgamation with Innishannon N.S., Bandonbridge became a three-teacher school.
The latest development, completed in 2014, introduced two spacious classrooms perfect for the Infant classes' Aistear programmes. Additionally, offices for the secretary and principal were constructed along with a large foyer area.
Currently, the school employs a staff of 22, comprising both full and part-time members, including an administrative principal, eight class teachers, four special education teachers, an EAL teacher, five SNAs, and a secretary, all committed to maintaining the school's tradition of dedicated service.
Our upcoming project involves the construction of two specialised classrooms with associated quiet spaces and communal rooms. A design team has been appointed, and plans have been submitted to the Department of Education for approval.
In 1976, the school expanded with the addition of five new classrooms. Photos from the Examiner feature the school Patron, Right Rev. Dr. R. G. Purdue, the chair of the Board, Rev. D. Woodworth, and Principal Ms. Betty Beamish.
Following the amalgamation with Brinny N.S., staff at Bandonbridge N.S. grew to five teachers. To accommodate the rising enrolment, a new classroom and staffroom were constructed in 2006.
Our photo captures Harriet Pritchard alongside the school Patron, Right Rev. Dr. Paul Colton.
