DDLETB Community National Schools: Inclusive, Innovative, and Inspiring

DDLETB is the proud patron of  9 Community National Schools (CNS) and 3 Community Special Schools (CSS), providing high-quality, inclusive, and student-centred education at primary level.

But what exactly is a  Community National School, and what makes it unique?

Community National Schools are state-funded, co-educational, multi-denominational primary schools that welcome all children of all backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs. Established in 2008 to reflect modern Ireland’s diversity, CNS schools provide a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environment, fostering a sense of belonging for every child.

They give equal opportunities to all children in the communities they serve and strive to provide high-quality education through respectful, positive, supportive and responsive learning environments. They were established in 2008 and are managed by the designated Education and Training Board in each area.

What is the CNS Ethos?

At the heart of every CNS are the 5  ETB core values of Community, Care, Excellence in Education, Respect and Equality. CNS are committed to:

✅ Inclusive Education – Recognising and celebrating the identity of every child.
✅ Respect for All – Fostering an environment where every belief and culture is valued.
✅ Excellence in Teaching and Learning – Providing high-quality education for all students.

✅ Community Focused – Working alongside the community and encouraging parental involvement in all aspects of school life as well as benefiting from the support and expertise of the wider community

✅ Democratic and Student-Centered environments – Encouraging student voice, well-being, and active citizenship.

The  CNS Ethos ensures that all students are equally respected and included, regardless of their faith or non-religious backgrounds.

What is Goodness Me, Goodness You! (GMGY)?

A key feature of Community National Schools is the  Goodness Me, Goodness You! (GMGY) curriculum. GMGY is a unique,  ethical and multi-belief and values-led education programme, designed to:
📌 Support children’s  moral and spiritual development
📌 Teach  empathy, understanding, and respect  for all beliefs and worldviews
📌 Encourage  critical thinking and ethical decision-making

The programme was developed for Community National Schools in collaboration with children, parents and teachers of the schools, the local Education and Training Boards, the Education and Training Board of Ireland, the Department of Education and Skills and assisted by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment.  GMGY ensures that all children feel valued and represented, supporting their sense of identity while fostering a respectful, diverse, and inclusive school culture.

 

Why Choose a Community National School?

Parents choose CNS schools because they offer:
⭐ A welcoming and inclusive environment
⭐ Excellence in teaching and learning
⭐ A strong focus on well-being and student voice
⭐ Recognition and respect for all beliefs and cultures
⭐ A balanced and modern approach to education

As a proud patron, DDLETB is committed to the continuous growth and success of our CNS and Community Special Schools, ensuring all children receive the best possible start in life.

For more information, visit www.cns.ie.

For a list of DDLETB CNS and CSS visit our Primary Schools page.