National school

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A national school is a type of school.

[edit] England and Wales

See also: Education in England and Education in Wales

Historically, a national school in England and Wales was a school originally established by The National Society[1] to teach an Anglican education. British Schools by comparison taught a non-sectarian education.

[edit] Ireland

See also: Education in the Republic of Ireland

In Ireland a national school is a particular type of primary school that is not directly financed or administered by the State. Rather, the affairs and policies of the school are managed by local people, often directed by a member of the clergy, through a local Board of Management. Most schools in Ireland fall into this category, which is a pre-independence concept.

Local people are expected to contribute towards capital expenses of the school, whilst teachers' salaries are paid by the state. The day-to-day business of the school is managed by a Principal or Headteacher, as with other schools. However, the state oversees the curriculum and makes regular inspections to ensure that standards are kept and national policies are followed.

Summary of classes in Irish national schools
Class Typical Ages Notes
Junior Infants 4-5 Subjects of English, Irish, mathematics, nature, religion, art and physical education are introduced
Senior Infants 5-6
First Class 6-7 Subjects of geography and history are introduced
Second Class 7-8 Catholic pupils usually take First Confession and First Holy Communion in this year
Third Class 8-9
Fourth Class 9-10
Fifth Class 10-11
Sixth Class 11-12 Catholic pupils usually take Confirmation in this year


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