Minister to visit two Kilkenny schools today, including official opening of new secondary school campus
Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton is visiting Christian Brothers College and Kilkenny City Vocational School
Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton is in Kilkenny today to visit two local schools.
She will be visiting Kilkenny City Vocational School this afternoon, and the new Christian Brothers College campus to unveil a commemorative plaque celebrating the official opening of the school. The school will also be marking the planned opening of two classes in the ASD unit in August 2026.
The relocation of Christian Brothers College to Dunningstown Road has marked the beginning of a significant new chapter for the entire school community.
“I congratulate everyone involved in bringing this ambitious and long-term project to completion," said Minister Naughton.
“Christian Brothers education in Kilkenny began in 1859 on James’ Street. Since then, for almost two centuries, this school has played a central role in the educational, social, cultural, and spiritual life of this city and its surrounds. Generations of families have passed through its doors.”
She said that the commemorative stone she is unveiling will stand as a marker of transition which honours the legacy which began in 1859, while anchoring the school firmly in its new home.
“The move to this new campus marks the beginning of a very important new chapter. While leaving James’s Street was undoubtedly emotional for many, this modern campus represents a powerful investment in the education of young people in Kilkenny for generations to come," she said.
“These facilities are designed for contemporary teaching and learning, for creativity and collaboration, for wellbeing and inclusion. I particularly welcome the opening of two classes to support boys with autism later this year, ensuring that students with additional needs are supported to meet their potential and be valued members of this school community with their friends and siblings.
“This development reflects a continued commitment to inclusive education. These purpose-built classrooms, together with the dedicated work of teachers, special needs assistants and school leadership will provide a supportive, respectful, and nurturing environment where students with additional needs can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.”
The Minister acknowledged the leadership and dedication of Principal Tom Clarke; his deputy principals, Derarca Maguire and Tomás de Buitléir; the chair of the board of management, Geoff Meagher; the members of all the boards of management and parents’ associations who have helped guide and support the work of the school over the years.
She said: “While today is a day to mark a new chapter in the school’s history, Christian Brothers College Kilkenny has and will continue to be a source of great pride for ERST, the city of Kilkenny and, indeed, the Department of Education and Youth.”
The project commenced on site in October 2023, and practical completion was reached in August 2025.