About Our Primary School

St Nicholas’ Parochial School is a co-educational, child-centred school with a long tradition of serving the youth of Galway. It is located in the heart of Galway City in Waterside, Woodquay. It is situated beside the Town Hall Theatre and is within close walking distance of the University of Galway and the hospital (UHG). This Church of Ireland School is the Parish School of St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church.

Our Primary school aims to provide an opportunity for each child to reach his/her potential in a co-educational setting and friendly atmosphere. It also aims to develop in each child the capacity to think clearly, creatively and critically and is a place where moral values and civic responsibility are nurtured and protected.

The Irish Primary Curriculum is delivered in an integrated manner, respective and appreciative of different religious affiliations and of different nationalities of the world. Facilities are available for children who wish to make their First Holy Communion and Confirmation.

Due to the central location of our Galway City Primary School (beside the Town Hall Theatre), our pupils have the opportunity to attend many different educational events within the city. The children regularly visit the Town Hall Theatre, Dubray Book Shop, The Black Box Theatre, The Galway City Museum, The City Library, Woodquay Park, The Plots (football pitch), The University, The Hospital and many other locations of interest.

Our school also offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities such as Swimming, Hockey, Drama, Chinese, French, Zumba, Ladybirds, Brownies, Music and Yoga.

St. Nicholas’ have an After School Facility in the school which facilitates homework and provides a range of activities.

The majority of the sixth class pupils transfer to local secondary schools in the Galway area.

School hours are as follows: 

Infants Classes: 8.30am to 1.20pm 

First Class –  Sixth Class: 8.30am to 2.20pm

ENROLMENT

Interested in Enrolling?

What’s Happening?

Nativity and Carol Service 2025

Nativity and Carol Service 2025

Christmas Carol singing in the hall! - We are preparing for one of the highlights of our school year, our Nativity and Carol Service! Make sure you have the date in your diary: December 5th at 11am in St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church! All are welcome.  

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Science with Jane

Science with Jane

In keeping with the theme of this year’s Science Festival - Then, Today, Tomorrow - the children in from 1st - 4th Class explored things from the past and present, putting them in order from oldest to newest. They also talked about what these items might look like and...

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Thank You

Thank You

A big, big thank you to all the children, parents and grandparents who came to support Junior & Senior Infants with their project at the Science Festival. We had a great day and we couldn’t have done it without you! [gallery link="file"...

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Testimonials

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We have two boys in the school, one in first class and one in third class and they both absolutely love it. From day one, they’ve been made to feel so welcome and supported. The teachers are fantastic – they really get to know each child and bring out the best in them. There is such a lovely atmosphere in the school, and it’s clear that the staff genuinely care about the children.

What we love the most is how much the boys get to do – from sports and music to creative projects and school events, there is always something exciting happening. Every day they are happy to go in, which says it all!

We honestly couldn’t be happier with the school and the wonderful team behind it.

Caroline & Tony Crowe October 2025

October 13, 2025

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St. Nicholas’ is more than a school to us. It’s a community where our children are nurtured and loved, with afterschool on the premises, extracurricular activities near by and amazing teachers and staff. It is such a wonderful environment for our children to be educated in, celebrating diversity and individuality. Gail Power

October 8, 2025

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"From the minute I stepped in the doors of St Nicholas' School for the open day I knew it was a very special place and my mind was instantly made up that it was the right school for my children. Three of my children attend now and they adore the school, they look forward to going every day. The children all receive excellent attention from their teachers, and this can be seen in their progress made throughout the year. I would have absolutely no question in recommending this school to any potential students" (Brooke)

October 7, 2021

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Our children have thrived at St Nicholas's. The small school size means the school is like a family. Teachers really know all the children, and the classes mix and take care of each other. It's a very secure environment which gives them great confidence as they grow and learn, and also for when they head on to secondary school and beyond.

 

February 7, 2024

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As my daughter approaches the end of her primary school years in 5th class, I feel truly inspired to express our deep gratitude for the exceptional experience she has enjoyed at Primary School, St. Nicholas. Throughout the years, every teacher my daughter has encountered has contributed their own unique qualities, resulting in a rich and nurturing learning environment. It is evident that all staff members are invested not only in the academic progress of their pupils, but also in their overall wellbeing and personal development. One of the most remarkable aspects of the school is its strong sense of community. The teachers’ genuine care reaches beyond the classroom, encouraging participation in local events and helping the children to build meaningful connections with the wider community. There are so many wonderful experiences that stand out, including visits to the university, enjoying the ice cream truck in the summer, and participating in swimming lessons. These moments, among many others, have all contributed to a vibrant and memorable school experience. Words can hardly do justice — the school’s atmosphere truly has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. Thanks to this supportive, inclusive, and creative environment, my daughter has flourished academically and personally. We look back with immense appreciation for the dedication, enthusiasm, and warmth shown by every teacher and member of staff. We wholeheartedly recommend Alexandra’s Primary School St. Nicholas to any family seeking a place where their child will be seen, supported, and celebrated. Emma Mooney-Wiegersma, Sean Coffey

October 8, 2025

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St Nicholas Parochial School is a gem. It's a happy, friendly, and beautiful school with small classes and great teachers. Having been part of the school community for several years, I am very happy to recommend it to any parent and especially those with children about to start Junior Infants and hoping to find a warm and nurturing environment for their little ones.

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 8, 2024

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As our daughter finishes her time at this beautiful primary school, we’re feeling incredibly grateful for the years she’s spent here. From the very beginning, the school has felt like a second home – warm, welcoming, and full of heart.

The teachers are truly passionate about what they do. Their dedication, patience, and genuine care for the children have made a lasting impact on our daughter’s learning and confidence. It’s clear that they go above and beyond, not just to teach, but to truly connect with each child.

What makes this school even more special is the sense of community. The other parents have been so kind and supportive – it really does feel like everyone is looking out for each other. Whether it’s lending a hand, sharing a smile at drop-off, or organising little get-togethers, there's a real spirit of togetherness.

I am very happy that my son will continue his education in this school as he still has few more years to go - otherwise we would miss the small, close-knit environment and the joyful atmosphere that fills the school each day. It’s a place where children are not only educated but also truly cared for. We couldn’t have asked for a better start to our daughter’s school journey. Alicja

October 9, 2025

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We had made the decision to move our son from his previous school to St. Nicholas’ as it came highly recommended from my cousin who has children in the school. Naturally we were a bit apprehensive about moving him. The thought of starting anew and making friends, but he came home after the first day and hasn't stopped smiling or talking about all his friends and teachers and of course principal Wendy, he has loved it ... such a great school in everything they do and get involved with, both during school and after. It was the best decision we ever made. The school goes over and beyond for both the pupils & their families also. (Jackie & Joe)

 

February 9, 2024

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St. Nicholas’ School is not just about education it is so much more than that. Love, kindness, and respect are so prevalent in this school. Teachers are accessible & always available to listen and give advice. The level of attention in developing a whole student is second to none. (Emma)

October 7, 2021

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The teachers at St. Nicholas' are like family. My children would never have gotten such individual attention at any other school. The support we received was life changing for our family.

February 7, 2024

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"Even though it may sound overly positive, it's the best school I could have ever imagined. The fact that there are few students makes them consider each other as one big family. In our case, as we moved from Spain to Ireland, what I was looking for was emotional support, which I have found to be much higher than expected. The school is simply wonderful".

February 26, 2024

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We really appreciate all the hard work and dedication everyone at St. Nicholas’ puts into making sure our children have such a positive and nurturing start to their learning journey. We are so pleased with how well our daughter has settled and the progress she has already made. Our younger son is starting school this coming September and we are thrilled that he was accepted to St. Nicholas’ where friends are made and teachers become your family.  (Magda and Kenny)

 

February 8, 2024

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A lovely, friendly atmosphere; children and pupils happy to be there. What is really nice is that children from different age groups all know each other. My daughter says: “There are no bullies in our school!” The small size of the school means each child gets plenty of attention. (Eavan)

April 15, 2018

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As parents of two children, a boy and girl, attending St Nicholas school, we cannot speak highly enough of the school.  This school is a real community, it has a lively family feeling, with staff who are 100% committed and wonderful teachers as well. Our children love going to school, and both are flourishing educationally and socially. We are delighted by the school's diversity, celebrated at their international days, and we believe this multiculturalism enriches our children's experience and prepares them well for the future. This Church of Ireland school instils a strong caring ethic, yet shares this without dogma, and is open and welcoming to those of all faiths and none. This school is a wonderful and hidden gem in Galway.  Agata 

 

February 6, 2024

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Both our daughters have their primary education at St Nicholas' Parochial School, and it's hard to imagine anywhere better. The children are nurtured and guided by a small but stellar staff of consummate professionals, whose dedication to the well-being and advancement of the children in their care is immediately evident. The children learn in a rich environment.  There is a warmth and radiance in the school's atmosphere, complemented by the closeness conferred by the school's small size. The children all know each other, from junior infants right up to sixth class; it generates the feeling more of a family than of an institution. The juniors are all allocated a buddy from the senior classes, guaranteeing an experience of safety and solidarity throughout the age ranges.  A unique gem of a school, in the heart of Galway City. We're very fortunate to have it.

 

 

February 7, 2024

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St Nicholas’ Parochial School is the little school with a big heart. Such an amazing place for any child to go to school. Individual attention, a wonderful holistic approach and a warm community feel. My little person skips into school every morning! (Ciara)

October 7, 2021

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St. Nicholas’ is a wonderful school because it is more than a school, it is a community. it is not only a place that encourages parental involvement but also equips parents to participate in their child’s educational experience. My child is more than a number but rather a valued member of St. Nicholas’ Parochial community.

October 5, 2015

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We moved to Galway last summer, and we enrolled our youngest 2 children into St Nicholas Parochial School. From the minute we first contacted the school, our family was met with kindness, inclusion and support. Our children run into school everyday, excited about the day ahead. The small class sizes and the incredible teachers make for such a nurturing learning experience for our children. I’ve never before encountered such a diverse, inclusive, fun, loving and caring environment for children. We feel honoured to be part of the St Nicholas’s community and grateful everyday that our children get to experience the wonder that is the small school with the big heart. (Parent)

 

February 9, 2024

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St. Nicholas’ is a very special school because it is petit in size but huge in ideas. The children are spoiled with different afterschool activities like Chinese, Brownies, hockey, and the most loved by my daughter...swimming! The teachers are dedicated and caring. I recommend this school to all of my friends.

October 5, 2015

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St. Nicholas’ Parochial School is a very good school. They have a unique way of teaching their pupils in such a way that all their students are very prepared academically and morally. Since my daughter was transferred to the school I have seen a lot of improvement. All of the teachers are really friendly. (Anthony)

April 15, 2018