Founded in 1857, Scoil Náisiúnta an Chroí Ró-Naofa, An Ráth, is a Roman Catholic, co-educational primary school in the Roman Catholic parish of Emo under the patronage of the Catholic Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin. The school identifies itself with the parish and diocesan communities leading to a sense of the universal church whose concern extends to all peoples.

As a Roman Catholic School, the school aims at promoting the full and harmonious development of all pupils; cognitive, intellectual, physical, cultural, moral and spiritual, including a living relationship with God and other people. The school models and promotes a philosophy of life inspired by belief in God and in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The policies, practices and attitudes of the school are inspired by the values of the Christian Gospel.

The school is a centre of excellence, where professional standards are maintained, and where pupils learn in a safe and happy environment. Pupils are constantly encouraged and affirmed, promoting a wholesome self esteem and confidence consistent with their uniqueness as persons. The school’s crest and motto, ‘Uasal ó Dhúchas’, aim to reflect the dignity and potential of each child as a human being. Teachers are sensitive to the needs and circumstances of each pupil. They are interested in the progress of their pupils and in developing their God-given talents to their utmost potential calling their pupils to excellence in every sphere, while recognising that the level of excellence appropriate to each child may well vary depending on the child’s abilities and gifts. The pursuit of excellence also prompts teachers to continue their own professional development, supported by the Board of Management.

Prayer is a regular feature of the school day. Such prayer uses the resources provided by Catholic tradition and practice while seeking to be inclusive in its expression. The celebration of the Christian Liturgical Seasons is a part of the rhythm of the school year. Children are offered the opportunity to participate in these celebrations. Catholic pupils are prepared for the sacraments of First Confession, First Communion and Confirmation in accordance with arrangements in the diocese. This occurs in partnership with the family and the parish

The school collaborates with the home and wider school community with parents as the most important, and essential, partners in the school; such active partnership is necessary to lead young people to the fullness of their potential.

The school’s Code of Behaviour reflects the Christian values of forgiveness, reconciliation, new beginnings and hope. The school promotes a positive sense of freedom – of intellectual independence, of the importance of an informed mind and conscience, of a healthy self- confidence, which can resist peer and media pressure. The aim is to lead young people progressively from a ‘must conscience’, which has controlling influences imposed from without, to a ‘should conscience’ which derives from internalised convictions, freely espoused.

The school recognises the dignity and value of each person. This is reflected in the organisation of the school, including admission and provision policies. No child is refused admission for reasons of ethnicity, educational needs, disability, language/accent, gender, traveller status, asylum-seeker/refugee status, religious/political beliefs and values, family or social circumstances.