A Brief History of Ardgillan College

Brief History of Ardgillan College

Ardgillan College is a post-primary school serving the growing community of Balbriggan, County Dublin and the surrounding townlands. The college is named after Ardgillan Castle and Demesne which is located close by. The college crest, designed by the students, contains a lighthouse representing Balbriggan, a castle with light beaming from its windows, representing Ardgillan Castle and the light of knowledge, and an acorn symbolising life and growth. The wording on the crest – mol an óige agus tiocfaidh - is very appropriate because it underpins the philosophy that children prosper when they are praised and supported.

The college opened in 2009 and enrolled 68 students into first year – 57 boys and 11 girls. Based in Castlelands, the school, under the patronage of Dublin & Dún Laoghaire Education and Training Board is a multi-denominational, co-educational Community College. The college was built on a phased basis with Phase 1 providing accommodation for up to 350 pupils from 1st September 2009. The college experienced rapid growth and phase 2, bringing capacity to 1,000 students was completed in 2015.

Ardgillan College delivers a six year cycle from first year to sixth year. The college has long waiting lists in each year group. Ardgillan is committed to developing an excellent school and sets high standards in all aspects of college life. Achievements are celebrated and publicised and strong links exist with local primary schools and the community.

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