Bishop O’ Brien School ( Scoil an Easpaig Ó Briain) is built on a 1.5 acre site adjacent to the community hall and church. It was opened in 1986 and it derives its name from Bishop O’ Brien who in Penal days, worked in the parish of Rathcormac and Bartlemy. He lived for over 30 years in the neighbouring townland of Ballinterry. Here he compiled the first known Irish- English dictionary and other works on Irish history.

Back in 1986, when the school was officially opened, a local newspaper report stated that “This ultra- modern building is very spacious and comfortable and excellently equipped”. This high standard has been maintained over the years with the school growing with many developments added to this building, the most recent extension being opened in 2020. The school now stands with 5 classrooms, 3 learning support rooms, a sensory room, and a P.E hall. We also have a large green playing field, 2 yard spaces and a handball alley.

However, the history of education in the area dates back a lot further than 1986. The old Monanig School, situated about a six minute drive from Bartlemy Village was opened in 19837. It was in operation for nearly 70 years. It was replaced by the school in Hightown in 1905. The school in Hightown is located about a kilometre from the village. This consisted of two rooms. The building was heated by a stove in each room, lit daily by the senior pupils. There was an outside toilet which was availed of in good weather and in bad.

Back to the present day and as we look out from the cosy, bright and welcoming classrooms of Bishop O’ Brien School, we think of the not so fortunate children who attended the schools in Monanig and Hightown. They walked long distances to and from school and very often sat in cold and damp classrooms. Great credit must go to the Board of Management, parents and local community over the recent years for their huge effort in providing such facilities in a small rural setting. As the school motto proudly states “Ní neart go cur le chéile” There’s strength in unity.