School Boards of Management

The board of management manages the school on behalf of the patron and is accountable to the patron and the Minister. The board must uphold the characteristic spirit (ethos) of the school and is accountable to the patron for so doing.

The principal is responsible for the day-to-day management of the school, including providing guidance and direction to the teachers and other staff of the school and is accountable for that management.

The Governance Manual for Primary Schools 2023 - 2027 contains an overview of the role of the board and the various rules regarding the composition and operation of boards.

The Department of Education circular Circular 0049/2023(published on 21 September 2023) informs primary school authorities that the updated Governance Manual for Primary Schools 2023 – 2027 has been published following consultation with the education partners.

General queries in relation to the Governance Manual for Primary Schools 2023 – 2027 should be emailed to: schoolgovernance@education.gov.ie

General queries in relation to recruitment and appointment procedures for teachers, principals and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) should be emailed to: teachersna@education.gov.ie

See also

• Governance Manual for Primary Schools 2023 - 2027: Form 1 Patron’s Declaration
• Airgead Bunscoile and Monthy Reporting Template
• Stanley Letter
• Board of Management Training
• Supporting Boards of Management in Primary and Special Schools: A guide to leading teaching and learning.