Since the 1860s, the Sisters of Mercy have contributed to the education of boys and girls in Macroom. This has led to the foundations of learning here in St.Joseph’s Primary School today. Each year on the 24th of September we celebrate Mercy Day to recognise the work and commitment of Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy to our school.
St.Joseph’s Primary School was originally located in St.Catherine’s Hall which is now part of St.Mary’s Secondary School. The new Primary School was then built in 1974.
In 2015, after huge fundraising efforts and persistence, our new building was completed along with a much-needed staff carpark.
In 2021, after renovations to what was the old cookery school, the Macroom Family Resource centre opened up a pre-school service on the school grounds.
Our school is continuing to grow and prosper and our staff work tirelessly to provide an education to equip our pupils to meet the challenges of the future. We emphasise and encourage the individuality of all pupils including those with special educational needs.
Our core curriculum consists of Irish, English, Maths, SESE, PE, SPHE and the Arts offering the children a broad and balanced learning experience and aims to allow all pupils to work to their own ability and to reach their full potential.
We also offer a wide range of activities throughout the school year such as football, basketball, swimming, drama and dancing.
As digital technology becomes more prevalent in our lives and in our curriculum, we aim to provide meaningful and enriching experiences for children with technology. We have brand new digital TVs in most of our classrooms, 3 sets of iPads as well as equipment to provide coding experiences such as LegoWeDo and Beebots.
We pride ourselves in providing the children with opportunities to be part of our Student Council where they meet every Wellness Wednesday(first Wednesday of the month) to discuss any events coming up in the school and provide us with suggestions and ideas.
Our Green Schools Committee put in huge efforts throughout the year planting trees, promoting awareness and helping with Tidy Towns. They are currently working on our Biodiversity Flag.
As a Catholic School, we work with our local parish throughout the year and prepare children for First Holy Communion and Confirmation. Although we are a Catholic school, we do welcome children of all beliefs and backgrounds.
