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School takes novel approach to boosting pupil numbers

June 1st, 2018 7:05 AM

By Southern Star Team

‘Walk on for a couple of minutes and you will be greeted with breath taking views of the sea,' says a statement from Lauragh NS.

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A Beara primary school is promoting its idyllic location to boost enrolment and prevent them losing their second teacher due to dwindling numbers. 

A BEARA primary school is promoting its idyllic location to boost enrolment and prevent them losing their second teacher due to dwindling numbers. 

They are also citing low property prices, available rental properties and good broadband in an attempt to lure new families to the area.  

Management at Lauragh National School describe it as being in ‘one of the most beautiful, tranquil and welcoming places in Ireland.’

‘Picture this: a gorgeous old stone building surrounded by woodland. Walk on for a couple of minutes and you will be greeted with breath taking views of the sea. Look around and you will see the outline of hills and mountains, as rugged and wild as anything you may encounter elsewhere on the Wild Atlantic Way. Where, you may ask, is this amazing place? It is Lauragh National School and we, the community are very proud of it.’

While Lauragh is in Kerry, it’s on the Beara Peninsula nestled between the Caha Mountains and Kilmackillogue Harbour.

A statement said: ‘Built in 1862, the school has recently been renovated with a purpose built playground and every child in the school has access to an ipad. Due to small numbers each and every child receives personal attention from highly qualified and dedicated teachers which results in a high level of access to learning support. However this unique school is in imminent danger of losing its second teacher if it does not have increased enrolment by September 2018.’

Equidistant from Kenmare and Castletownbere, they describe the community as a safe place for children to grow and thrive. 

‘Although rural, Lauragh and its environs boast various activities and clubs for children, adults and families. These include a Mother and Toddler group, football, water sports, cycling and walking routes, sea and lake fishing, scuba diving, youth club and after school club and more. For the foodies there is no shortage of cafes, restaurants and pubs in the immediate area and in Kenmare and neighbouring towns. For the music lovers the area is steeped in traditional Irish music with an active and vibrant Comhaltas branch.

‘If you would consider moving to Lauragh and would like more information please contact Community Council on [email protected] or visit our Facebook page Lauragh Community Council.  Alternatively contact the Lauragh Community Council Secretary  (Ruthe) or Public Relations Officer (Siobhan) on 0862 685735 or 0861 500689.’

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