Scoil Bhride

The history of education in the former parish of Cannistown/Ardsallagh goes back to the sixth century when St. Finian of Clonard founded a monastery in the locality, probably at or near the ruins of Cannistown church. In the middle ages, a nunnery existed close to Ardsallagh house though no visible evidence remains. The late Pat Delaney spoke of a hedge school which was located beside the bridge  between the existing school and the entrance to Ardsallagh Avenue. Pat was told of its existence by a man who was born in the locality in the 1860’s.With the establishment of a National School system in the 1830’s, a school was built on the Navan side of the existing school. The old school building, beside the road, was opened in 1890 as a one teacher school. This was refurbished in the 1950’s and again in2007 and 2009.The newer building was opened in 1988.Since then a number of prefabricated rooms have been added.

Right through the ages Cannistown/Ardsallagh has had a school and even today, it is clear that the school is a valued facility and is generously supported by the community.