Principal's Message

At St Mary’s Primary School, we are dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. Rooted in our Catholic faith and guided by the values of family, community, kindness, and fairness, we strive to inspire a love of learning and a deep sense of belonging.
We offer a broad and balanced curriculum that nurtures the development of essential skills, knowledge, and values to support lifelong learning. Our approach is designed to empower pupils to grow into well-rounded individuals who are prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Our pupils are encouraged to become confident, disciplined, and curious learners who take ownership of their learning and make thoughtful, informed decisions.
We encourage children to explore the world around them through scientific, historical, geographical, and religious inquiry, helping them develop a deep understanding of their environment and a strong sense of social and environmental responsibility.
We foster a love of Language and Literacy, helping children to become articulate and expressive communicators who can engage meaningfully with others.
We lay a solid foundation in Mathematics and Numeracy, equipping pupils with the knowledge, and confidence to apply their learning effectively in real-life situations.
Creativity and physical development are equally valued. We provide opportunities for pupils to express themselves through the arts, develop practical skills, and engage in physical activity, supporting their overall well-being and personal growth.
Our core values are woven into the fabric of daily school life. We promote respect and inclusion by ensuring every voice is heard and valued. We encourage resilience and perseverance, helping pupils to face challenges with determination and grow through their experiences. Kindness and friendship are at the heart of our community, fostering a caring and supportive environment. We are committed to fairness and equality, ensuring that every child can succeed and thrive.
Our dedicated staff work in close partnership with parents and the wider community to ensure that every child is supported in all aspects of their development—spiritually, academically, physically, emotionally, and socially.
We keep our school community informed, engaged and connected through regular updates on our website, where you’ll find the latest news, upcoming events, and highlights of school life. We warmly invite prospective parents and pupils to visit us and experience our vibrant learning environment firsthand. Please get in touch with the school office to arrange a tour.
Our vision—Safe. Valued. Empowered to Thrive. —is more than a statement; it is a lived experience for every member of our school community.
Des O'Hagan
Principal
Nut Allergies

Please do not send any types of foods containing any type of nuts into school for lunches as we have children with severe nut allergies.
Please check the labels on food being sent into school to ensure there are no traces of nuts.
Food containing any types of nut product will have to be confiscated.
We cannot allow products in school if the label states; "may contain traces of nuts."
We have children with severe nut allergies in the school.
Our Recent News
St Mary's Daily Mile
It takes place in 15 minutes, with most children averaging a mile, or more, each day.
Children walk or run outside in the fresh air – and the weather is a benefit, not a barrier.
It’s social, non-competitive and fun.
The children return to class ready to learn.
It helps to improve fitness.
It encourages children to be aware of their health.
It’s fully inclusive; every child, whatever their circumstances, age or ability, succeeds at The Daily Mile.
St Mary's Primary School, Reilly Street, Banbridge, Co Down BT32 3DJ | T: 028 4066 2572 | E: info@stmarys.banbridge.ni.sch.uk