
The Curragh Montessori School
Team
The Curragh Montessori offers Montessori education and professional childcare for children from 2.5yrs – 6 yrs. The Montessori school has been established in the Old School House in Athgarvan since 1995. With an experienced staff who have been with the school for 29 years (Mary), 20 years (Fiona) and 17 years (Debbie) respectively, we pride ourselves in having created a cheerful, little community where staff work together amicably to create a happy and relaxed home from home environment for our children.
The physical, psychological, and educational needs of all children will be met by this experienced, professional and caring staff. The school is accessible to all, regardless of the child’s ability or background.
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Additionally, we are connected to St Nicholas Montessori Teachers Association and take active part in their Montessori network meetings, curriculum workshops, and we avail of their ongoing mentoring service. We are Tusla registered, and also liaise with Kildare County Childcare Committee regarding training and partnerships with local schools.
Our Staff





Mary McCann
Fiona Walsh
Deborah Mc Dermott Joanna Cunningham
Mary Mc Cann
Directress / Owner Manager
Qualified in Montessori teaching since 1996
1995 - Present: Directress at The Curragh Montessori School, Athgarvan, Co Kildare
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-Higher Diploma (Level 8) in Early Childhood Education and Care – 2015
-Diploma in Montessori Teaching 2 ½ – 6 years
-Ph D in Psychology
-BSc in Psychology
-Keeping Safe – Child Protection Awareness Raising Training
-First Aid Certificate
-Mother of 4 children
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Fiona Walsh
Directress / Manager / LINC Coordinator
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Qualified in Montessori teaching since 2005
2006 – Present: ​Childcare Practioner at The Curragh Montessori School, Athgarvan
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-Diploma in Montessori Teaching
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-Fetac Level 6 Childcare Certificate
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-Leadership and Inclusion Level 6 (LINC)
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-Keeping Safe – Child Protection Awareness
Raising Training
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-First Aid Certificate
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-Mother of 2 children
Deborah Mc Dermott Joanna Cunningham
Childcare Practioner Childcare Practioner
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2009 - Present: Childcare Practioner at 2023 - Present: Childcare Practioner The Curragh Montessori School, at The Curragh Montessori School,
-Fetac Level 6 Childcare Certificate - Masters Degree Level 9
Certificate Early Years Education and Childcare
--Leadership and Inclusion Level 6 (LINC)
-First Aid Certificate
- Keeping Safe – Child Protection -
Awareness Raising Training - Mother of 2 children
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-First Aid Certificate
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-Mother of 4 children