330KM a Day Round Trip made by Pupils from 4 Kerry Primary Schools who go the Distance for a School that Offers Choice in Education.

Every morning, before many have even begun their day, a group of dedicated primary school pupils in County Kerry board buses and cars to travel a combined 330 kilometres to attend school. These children, enrolled in Kerry ETB’s four Community National Schools (CNS), are part of a growing movement of families choosing a different path for their children’s education. One built on inclusivity, respect, and a modern, child-centred approach to learning.

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Across Tahilla CNS, Two Mile CNS, Scoil an Ghleanna CNS, and Lyreacrompane CNS, students travel from all corners of the county, some covering up to 60km each way, to attend a school that best fits their needs. For many parents, the decision to choose a Community National School was about more than just proximity, it was about values, ethos, and a learning environment that allows their children to thrive.

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For Jeannine Storan, who chose Two Mile CNS for her son Ned, the school’s holistic approach to education was a deciding factor. "There’s a real balance between academic excellence and overall well-being. The small class sizes ensure that each child’s learning needs are met. We travel from Cromane every day, and while the logistics take planning, it’s absolutely worth it. These schools are more than child-centred, they are child-led."

The Goodness Me, Goodness You! (GMGY) programme is at the heart of Community National Schools, ensuring children are exposed to multi-belief and values-based education while following the National Primary School Curriculum. The programme nurtures critical thinking, emotional well-being, and an appreciation for diverse perspectives. Parents see this as a major strength, allowing their children to develop confidence, empathy, and a sense of belonging.

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In Tahilla CNS, Declan Sherry has seen the impact of this approach on his children, Freja and Yngvi. "There was no other alternative in our area to the traditional Catholic primary school. We wanted a school where they could be themselves, where diversity is celebrated, and where they can learn in a way that encourages them to understand and appreciate differences. They have developed such an awareness of themselves and others, and that’s something we wouldn’t change for anything."

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The travel commitment for some families is significant, but for those like parent Charlene Barron and Justin Lyons, whose daughter Leanne attends Lyreacrompane CNS, the long journey is a small price to pay for the benefits of the school’s environment. "We live in Kilgarvan, and while it’s a 120km round trip, Leanne loves it. From the first day in Lyreacrompane CNS, she felt at home. Her confidence has grown so much, and she gets more support where she needs it. The journey has become part of our routine, she listens to music, we chat, and before we know it, we’re there."

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"From the moment I met the principal and other parents at Scoil an Ghleanna, I knew it would be the right fit for my daughter," said Clodagh Cahill, whose child Ailish travels daily to the Gaelscoil. "She’s so happy there, she even asked me why the summer holidays have to be so long! The small class sizes and outdoor learning opportunities make such a difference. The commute works well for us, and the school bus gives her extra social time too."

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Kerry ETB’s Community National Schools continue to expand access and opportunity, offering families a real choice in primary education. With school transport now supporting more pupils than ever before, these schools are proving that distance does not have to be a barrier to an inclusive, high-quality education.

For parents who want to learn more, Kerry ETB is hosting a live webinar on February 10th at 8pm, where families can hear directly from current parents about what makes these schools unique. To register, visit www.kerryetb.ie or email Lisa O'Flaherty at [email protected].

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For families considering a Community National School, the message from those already making the journey is clear: "Try it—you won’t regret it."

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For more information, visit www.kerryetb.ie.