We have a Naíonra/pre-school within the school building, the Naíonra is run through the medium of Irish.  This is run by Agnes O’Donnell and Michelle Pidgeon.

What is Montessori?

The first six years of a child’s life, are vital years for development and the foundation for all future development.

* Montessori is a way of teaching children through play, to assist them in their development.

* Montessori aims to assist in the total development of the whole child, socially, emotionally, physically, intellectually and cultural.

* Montessori materials will be displayed in the classroom.

* Each piece of equipment has its own purpose for teaching the child, practical, life, language, maths, cultural and encourage the child to learn freely and independently.

Service Provided

The Pre-school will cater for all children in the community, of all nationalities from age 2 years 8 months—5 years.  Our service also has a school aged service for the purpose of providing an afterschool facility for children aged 4 years to 10 years. 

The adult– child ratio is 1:11 and all staff undergo Garda vetting procedures.

What is Naíonra?

The aim of the Naíonra is to provide quality early education to children in a stimulating, healthy, supportive, pleasant and friendly environment. 

Naíonra is an Irish medium childcare service which provides care for children, where child’s individuality is respected. The child will be engaged in an age appropriate, child centered activities, which emphasis the importance of play in achieving his/her overall social, cognitive and physical development.

Ta ag paisti oga bheith ag suil le-gra, sabhailteacht sugradh, eispeiris nua, aithentas, moladh, fein-mhuinin agus go leor sport agus spraoi o sheirbhis curam leanai.

No pressure is put on any child to speak Irish. The idea is that the child will acquire this language in the same way in which he/she acquired the first language-listening, understanding,isolating words and structures and eventually words phrases and sentences.

The Naíonra is recognized by Forbairt Naionrai Teo which supports the promotion of quality education and care services in Irish for children from birth.

Naíonra / Montessori Beal Atha Na Muice is a private run pre-school based in Swinford National School, which has its own separate entrance.

Children can avail of the Free School Scheme. The free pre-school year is available to children who are 3 years 3months – 5 years 6 months. We also accommodate fee paying children.