
Irish School Cairo
Founded 1982
Updated July 2026
The Irish School is an educational institution in Cairo established in 1982 that provides care and schooling for children from infancy through the primary years. It offers both English and French sections, focusing on early childhood development and foundational education.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
The school emphasizes the importance of early childhood development, drawing on research regarding brain growth and the emotional lives of young children. It aims to provide quality care in a nurturing environment, working in partnership with parents to support the psychological and social development of each child.
Programmes
The school offers a comprehensive range of programmes including a creche (6 months to 1 year), toddlers (1–2 years), nursery (2–4 years), and foundation stage/KG (4–5 years). It also provides a Maternelle programme (ages 2–6) and primary education for children aged 5–11. Additionally, the school runs a summer programme for children aged 5–11.
Student support
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
Prospective families are invited to download and complete an application form from the school website. Completed forms should be submitted via email to the school's designated address. Fees are payable in two installments per year, and the school maintains a strict policy regarding non-refundable registration and tuition fees.
Calendar
The school operates a year-round programme, with academic calendars published annually for the upcoming school year. A summer school programme is also available during July and August, offering flexible enrollment options by the week or by the month.
About the campus
The school operates two locations in Cairo: one in Maadi on Road 12 and another in the New Cairo district on Road 29. These premises are designed to provide a safe and stimulating environment for early childhood care and primary education.
- Lareina PhelanDirector/Owner
Lareina Phelan is the Director and Owner of the Irish School Cairo, holding a B.A. and Dipl.Ed. She is described as having a "History of Forward Thinking."
- Marian PhelanEducator
Marian Phelan holds a B.A. and Dip.Ed. She authored the school's foreword, focusing on early childhood development, brain research, and the importance of supporting parenting skills.
- Francoise ChassagnardAssnt Director
Francoise Chassagnard serves as the Assistant Director for both the Maadi and New Cairo locations of the Irish School.
- Audrey OryAssnt to Director
Audrey Ory serves as the Assistant to the Director at the New Cairo location.
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