Cistercian College

The college is committed to a Christian, caring, and inclusive environment that values community, character, and respect. It promotes a culture of proactive service, genuine inquiry, and international mindedness, with an unwavering focus on helping each student reach his limitless potential. The educational approach is holistic, aiming to develop well-rounded, resilient young people.

The academic offering spans the Junior Cycle, a Transition Year (TY) programme, and the Senior Cycle, which prepares students for the Leaving Certificate. The TY programme serves as a bridge between cycles, featuring subjects such as Art, Music, Technical Graphics, and modern languages, alongside core requirements like Wellbeing, Religion, Choir, and Public Speaking. The school also offers tailored international programmes to meet the specific needs of international students.

The college aims to develop students who reach their full potential and make positive contributions to society. Research from the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) indicates that students who complete the Transition Year programme at the college outperform their peers in the Leaving Certificate examination. Graduates are prepared for entry into third-level education and often pursue leadership roles in their future lives.

The college provides a dedicated Study Centre to support academic progress. Additionally, the boarding programme includes a focus on health and wellbeing, with staff available to support students throughout their time at the school.

The college manages admissions through a formal enquiry and application process, with specific procedures available for international applicants. Prospective families are encouraged to contact the Director of Admissions for personal guidance. The school offers various fee structures, including boarding and day options, with sibling discounts and standing order payment arrangements available.

The academic calendar includes weekly updates, scheduled fixtures, and various events throughout the school year. Termly fees are due at the start of each term, or via a nine-month standing order schedule beginning in late August.

Set on 30 acres of manicured grounds and native forest on the site of Mount St. Joseph Abbey, the campus provides a sanctuary for students. Facilities include an outdoor classroom, a walled garden, and dedicated spaces for boarding, study, and extracurricular pursuits. The college also maintains IT infrastructure to support modern learning requirements.

Students participate in a wide spectrum of activities, including sports, music, and the arts. The school emphasizes leadership development through opportunities such as the Student Council and the election of House Captains, who serve as liaisons between the student body and school authorities. Additionally, the Transition Year programme incorporates entrepreneurial projects, environmental awareness initiatives, and the construction of an outdoor classroom.