Ireland, National School Registers, 1847-1933

Historical Context

The National School system in Ireland was established in 1830 with an aim to provide a basic education for the poor children of Ireland, of any denomination. These early schools were proudly secular and any religious teaching had to be kept separate from other lessons. However, the various religious denominations lobbied the government to allow single faith schools and gradually that model became more prominent in the school system.

This Collection

This collection includes records of individual schools from 26 counties across Ireland. Registers provide details of the pupil's name, date of birth, religious affiliation, residence, occupation of parent or guardian and also details of the last national school attended.