Rockwell College – 160 years of excellence

For over 160 years, Rockwell College has been at the forefront of Irish education, balancing tradition with constant evolution. 

Rockwell College has a proud tradition in academic, sporting and cultural achievements. However, it is the tradition of offering every pupil the chance to reach their potential that is our lasting achievement.

Founded in 1864, Rockwell remains a leading independent school, offering both day and boarding options in a unique co-educational environment.

Initially, just 18 pupils were enrolled in Rockwell College. It quickly earned a reputation for academic excellence - a reputation it still holds. As the years progressed, the College evolved from educating for the religious orders to educating lay students, boarders and day pupils, also. 

Its alumni include a range of figures from Ireland’s political and literary past: 1916 Signatory Thomas McDonagh and former President Patrick Hillary attended Rockwell College.

For over a century, Rockwell College only educated boys. This changed in the late 1980s, with the arrival of girls firstly as repeat Leaving Certificate pupils and, over the next few years, as boarders and day pupils in all year groups. 

The college is now proud to be Ireland’s only Catholic co-educational boarding school, with girls boarding on campus since September 2023. 

This milestone builds on almost 40 years of co-education at Rockwell, reflecting the college’s commitment to developing in step with modern families' needs while remaining true to its ethos of care and community.

Rockwell students achieve consistently high Leaving Certificate results, year after year, performing significantly above national averages in all subjects. 

Academic excellence is matched by a high level of support and pastoral care, ensuring every learner is guided to reach their full potential. 

Small class sizes and individual attention encourage pupils to thrive, combining intellectual challenge with personal growth.

The College continues to invest in its facilities to provide an outstanding environment for learning and living. 

Modern classrooms, fully equipped science laboratories, specialist music and art spaces, and extensive sports amenities ensure students have every opportunity to excel. 

The addition of a new 4G all-weather pitch further enhances Rockwell’s proud sporting tradition, particularly in rugby, while supporting a wide range of physical activities.

Today, Rockwell College stands as a community of learning and care – a place where excellence in standards is matched by excellence in support, and where tradition continues to meet innovation.

• For more information, visit www.rockwellcollege.ie.
• Rockwell College Open Day will be held on Saturday, September 20th 2025, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm 
• Principal’s Address: 10:15 am 
• “Build your future on a solid foundation”