Early School in Cromane (1868)

The first known school in Cromane was built in 1868. It was a one-roomed mixed school, located on the site where Teahan’s accommodation now operates. At first, it appears that only boys attended. Before this building was used as a school, it was a house owned by Mrs. Cotcher, which gave the school its local name, “Cotcher’s School.” When the next school was built, this house was demolished. Mrs. Sheehan, a teacher at the time, built a small house on the site, but after her death the property was sold. Denis Teahan then bought the site.

Cromane National School (1886)

When Fr. Thomas Lawler arrived in Cromane in 1884, he found three dilapidated primary schools under his care. He set about the task of replacing them and in 1886 his dream became a reality with the completion of Cromane National School. This new school, constructed of stone and mortar by local volunteers, provided education for the children living on the western side of the parish of Killorglin. Boys and girls were taught separately until their amalgamation in 1967. The original design included four classrooms and a gallery but there were no indoor toilets or running water.

Education in the Early Years

The subjects taught at the time included English, Irish, History, Geography, Catechism, Cooking, Needlework and Singing. All subjects were taught through English, although many children still spoke Irish at home and among themselves.

A New School for Cromane (1986)

In 1986, a new school was built on a site in Lonhart, replacing the 100-year-old building. The official name given to the new school was Scoil Réalt na Mara, meaning “Star of the Sea.” The old school was converted into a community centre. The new school building consisted of three classrooms, a teachers’ room, a utility room, a general purpose hall and play facilities.

Growth and Development (2006 - 2022)

In 2006, a two-classroom extension was officially opened, bringing the school’s facilities to five classrooms, a general purpose hall, staff room, kitchen, office, learning support room, accessible bathroom, medical room and library.

In 2021, the Department of Education granted permission for the construction of an additional mainstream classroom and a learning support room. This extension was completed and the new classroom opened on 13 December 2022.

Future Plans

Also in 2022, a multi-million euro project was announced to construct a purpose-built SEN (Special Educational Needs) building for the school. When complete, this new building will be a tremendous addition to the school community. Our two Autism Classes will operate from this modern space, which will include a hard and soft play area, sensory garden, central activity space, two classrooms, two quiet rooms, a multi-activity room, toilet and shower facilities, two accessible toilets, staff toilets, a daily living skills area, cleaner’s store and office.

 Our Ongoing Mission

Scoil Réalt na Mara continues to grow and evolve, but at its heart remains its unwavering commitment to the children, families, and wider community of Cromane. From its humble beginnings in a one-room schoolhouse to the development of a state-of-the-art facility, the school stands as a beacon of progress, inclusion, and community spirit. With each new chapter, Scoil Réalt na Mara honours the legacy of those who came before, while looking confidently to the future and ensuring that every child who passes through its doors is supported, celebrated and inspired.