Senior Leadership Team Welcome
I am delighted to welcome you and your child to Ardgillan College. We hope this booklet will provide you with an understanding and appreciation of the values, practices and aspirations of our school. As you browse through these pages, we hope that you will gain a good insight into the excellent modern facilities, the wide-ranging curriculum and the vibrant extracurricular programmes offered at the College.
Our vision, based on the three pillars of Teamwork, Respect and Excellence, is that the College community will work together in an atmosphere of mutual respect and that our students will grow in confidence, personality and character. We believe that every student has special gifts and talents and that by co-operating together as a team we can nurture their confidence, create high expectations, and support them to achieve their full potential.
Ardgillan College is very proud of the reputation that it has developed over its short history, which is a result of the incredible commitment and great work carried out by students, staff and parents. A spirit of partnership, teamwork and positivity permeates throughout the College.
Le Meas,
Nuala Ní Mhurchú
Mission Statement
Ardgillan College promotes a happy and caring community where students are encouraged and supported to reach their full potential. Teamwork, Respect and the pursuit of Excellence form cornerstones of the College philosophy. The ethos of the College is based on respect, tolerance, and understanding while appreciating the diversity of our changing world. The College aims to provide a broad education for all students and to nurture their individual abilities and talents. Ardgillan College's motto is ‘Mol an Óige agus Tiocfaidh Sí’ (Praise the young and they will flourish).
Robert Finnegan Deputy Principal
Nuala Ní Mhurchú Principal
Claire Scanlon Deputy Principal
Krista Dunne Deputy Principal
College Ethos
Ardgillan College has three Pillars:
Teamwork Respect Excellence
Supporting each other in working towards a shared goal.
Treating everyone with consideration, courtesy, understanding, and kindness.
Striving to achieve your best and going above expectations
‘Mol an Óige agus Tiocfaidh Sí’
Our motto underpins the ethos of Ardgillan. It reflects the College’s commitment to nurturing, encouraging, and valuing the potential of every student.
History of our School
Ardgillan College is a post-primary school serving the growing community of Balbriggan, County Dublin and the surrounding townlands. The College was established in 2009 and is named after Ardgillan Castle and Demesne, which is located close by. Based in Castlelands, Balbriggan, the College, under the patronage of Dublin & Dún Laoghaire Education and Training Board (DDLETB), is multi-denominational and co-educational. The College started with sixty-eight students and is now a thriving community of over one thousand students.
Curriculum
Junior Cycle
Students in Junior Cycle study thirteen subjects in Ardgillan College. Ten are examinable, and three are Wellbeing. Students choose one language and two option subjects when enrolling in the College.
Core Subjects
English Religion
Maths Science
Gaeilge History
Option Subjects
Business Home Economics
Applied Technology Music
Graphics Visual Art
SPHE Geography Engineering Wood Technology
PE CSPE
Modern Foreign Language (French or Spanish)
Senior Cycle
Digital Media Literacy Coding
Students study seven subjects at Senior Cycle in Ardgillan College, choosing three options from a list of twenty subjects. Ardgillan is one of the first schools in Ireland to introduce Drama, Film and Theatre Studies at Senior Cycle.
Biology Music Politics & Society Art
Computer Science
Religion Construction Accounting Engineering History
Geography Business Economics
Home Ec Physics
Suaimhneas
DCG
Chemistry Drama, Film & Theatre Studies
Techology Agricultural Science
We are a fully inclusive school and our Learning Support AEN Department is central to this ethos, offering specialised support and a range of interventions designed to overcome difficulties and to help all our students meet their full potential.
Our ASD Centre, Suaimhneas, is at the heart of Ardgillan College. Suaimhneas, meaning peace or tranquility in Irish, is a dedicated space within the school that provides targeted support for students who may need additional help in managing emotional, social, or sensory needs. Suaimhneas offers a calm, nurturing environment where students can access individualised support.
We facilitate an inclusive education for all Suaimhneas students, providing the opportunity to engage in all walks of school life. A number of students have graduated and carried on to third level education pursuing their ambitions. We are so proud to have such an incredible resource within our school community.
Transition Year
Transition Year (TY) at Ardgillan College is one-year programme offered to students after completing the Junior Cycle. It provides a valuable opportunity for personal, social, and academic development in a supportive and stimulating environment. It is a dynamic year designed to broaden horizons and build confidence, ensuring students are well-prepared for the Senior Cycle and life beyond school.
The TY programme allows students to explore new subjects, gain practical experience, and develop key life skills through a wide range of activities, workshops, and work experience placements. At Ardgillan College, TY encourages creativity, independence, and maturity, helping students to make informed decisions about their future education and career paths.
Students will study a range of modules alongside their core subjects in TY. A sample of our TY modules includes:
Sample TY Modules
Mini Company
Coaching Studies Debating Green Schools
STEM Module Film Studies Journalism Active Science
Horticulture and Murals ReLove Fashion
Choir & Band Drama
Headstrong Exploring Science
Digital Art Photography
An important part of TY is giving students the opportunity to engage with different experiences. A sample below of just some of the many extra curricular activities our TY students engage with:
Microsoft Dreamspace Ambassador Programme
Delphi Outdoor Adventure Centre
Samba Drumming Workshop
Driving Lessons
Gaeltacht Rowing
Fencing
Kairos Film Productions
Podcast Workshops
Learning and Teaching in Ardgillan College
Learning and Teaching is at the core of what we do in Ardgillan College. We are committed to providing a learning environment where every student is encouraged to achieve their personal best. Our approach blends highquality teaching with strong support systems, ensuring students are both challenged and cared for throughout their educational journey. We strive to meet the diverse needs, talents, and interests of all learners. Through this balanced and inclusive approach, we help students grow into confident, curious, and resilient young people, ready to succeed in school and beyond.
Digital Technology
In Ardgillan College we recognise the importance of digital technology in learning and teaching. Digital learning isn’t just something we do—it’s part of who we are. Technology is used in our College to develop a wide range of critical skills such as digital literacy, creativity, innovation, and collaboration.
Our College utilises Microsoft Office 365 with each student having their own Office account. Teachers share content through Office 365 allowing for communication, the sharing of resources, assigning work, and offering feedback. Students learn to navigate online spaces responsibly. Our Digital Ambassadors guide safety campaigns and training, building confidence and leadership.
The College has invested in the provision of digital learning within our school to promote high quality learning and teaching. Every student benefits from seamless access to digital tools—from tablets and laptops to industry-standard software— empowering them to research, create, code, and collaborate in every subject.
Achieving Excellence
At Ardgillan College, we foster a culture of high expectations where every student is encouraged to aim high and take pride in their achievements. Excellence is not just a goal – it is a shared mindset across our school community.
Our dedicated and highly trained teachers set clear standards and provide engaging, challenging lessons that inspire students to reach their full potential. Through ongoing professional development, our staff continuously refine their practice to ensure the highest quality of teaching and learning.
Assessment is used thoughtfully to support progress, with regular feedback helping students understand their learning and set meaningful goals. Strong academic outcomes and a consistent record of success reflect our commitment to excellence at every level. By combining ambition with support, we create an environment where effort, progress, and personal growth are celebrated every step of the way.
Réalt – Gifted and Talented
At Ardgillan College, the Réalt Programme is designed to support students who show a strong interest or ability in particular areas of learning. Named after the Irish word for “star,” the programme aims to help students reach their full potential through challenge, creativity, and curiosity.
Réalt offers enrichment activities, academic mentoring, and opportunities for deeper exploration beyond the regular curriculum. It encourages students to develop independent thinking, pursue their passions, and grow in confidence and leadership.
We have worked closely with Dr Fidelma Healy Eames to design this bespoke programme which forms part of our commitment to recognising and nurturing the diverse strengths of all students in a positive, inclusive environment.
Wellbeing
We understand that students learn best when they feel happy, safe, and supported – that’s why wellbeing is a core focus at Ardgillan College.
Our comprehensive wellbeing programme supports students socially, emotionally, and academically. This includes dedicated Wellbeing lessons and events, access to pastoral care, guidance counselling, peer mentoring, and a wide range of extracurricular activities designed to promote balance, resilience, and connection.
Pastoral care is central to our approach. Each student is supported by a team that includes their Tutor, Year Head, Guidance Counsellor, and other key staff members. This team works together to build strong relationships, provide individual support, and ensure that no student feels overlooked or alone.
Erasmus+
Erasmus+ is a European Union initiative that promotes education, training, youth, and sport through cross-border cooperation and mobility. At Ardgillan College, we actively participate in the Erasmus+ programme at both staff and student levels. Staff members benefit from professional development opportunities through job shadowing and training placements in partner institutions across Europe. For students, the programme offers valuable short-term learning experiences with our European partner schools, fostering cultural exchange, collaboration, and personal growth.
Student Supports
At Ardgillan College, we believe strong support structures are key to student wellbeing and success. From the moment students join us, they are guided by a dedicated network of staff and peers who are there every step of the way. Each student is assigned a Tutor who provides daily support and is their first point of contact for any concerns. Year Heads oversee each year group, monitoring progress and working closely with tutors to ensure every student is thriving both personally and academically. Students have assembly with their Tutors and Year Head every morning.
Our Guidance Department offers oneto-one support in areas such as wellbeing, study skills, subject choice, and career
planning. The Care Team, made up of key pastoral and leadership staff, meets regularly to coordinate support for students who may need extra help.
In addition, trained student mentors play an important role in helping first years settle in, offering a friendly face and peer support as they adjust to secondary school life.
Together, these supports create a caring and connected school community where no student is left behind.
Our 6th Year student benefit from our Check and Connect Programme. Every 6th Year student is assigned a staff mentor at the beginning of 6th Year. This staff mentor will check in with the student throughout 6th Year, as they navigate the final year in Ardgillan.
Mol an Óige Beyond the Classroom
At Ardgillan College, education extends far beyond the classroom. We believe that a well-rounded student experience includes opportunities to explore interests, develop talents, and build lasting friendships through a vibrant and diverse extra curricular programme.
Our wide range of clubs, teams, and activities cater to all interests – whether your child is passionate about sports, music, the arts, science, public speaking, or community service.
These opportunities not only complement academic learning but also promote confidence, teamwork, creativity, and leadership.
With dedicated staff and enthusiastic student participation, extra curricular life at Ardgillan College is dynamic, inclusive, and central to our school community. We encourage every student to get involved, discover new passions, and enjoy the full richness of school life.
Examples of the range of extra curricular activities in Ardgillan:
Creative & Performing Arts
Choir
School Musical
Film Club
Arts and Craft Club
Photography
Academic & Intellectual
Debating
Model United Nations
Young Scientist
Book Club
Student Enterprise
Chess
Leadership & Social Impact
Student Council
Equality Club
Gaisce (The President’s Award)
Lifestyle & Hobby Clubs
Cooking Club
Dungeons and Dragons
Coding / Minecraft
Sports & Physical Activities
Soccer
Rugby
Gaelic
Football
Hurling
Camogie
Hockey
Volleyball
Badminton
Basketball
Cricket
Golf
Athletics
Our Prefects also assist with the organising and running of a range of themed weeks. These include:
Stand Up Week, Anti Bullying Week, Seachtain Na Gaeilge, History Week, Business Week, Science Week, EU Code Week, and Autism Awareness Week
Student Leadership
At Ardgillan College, we place great value on empowering our students to take an active role in shaping their school experience. Student leadership and voice are central to our ethos, helping to create a respectful, inclusive, and forwardthinking school community. Through a range of leadership opportunities — including the Student Council, Head Boy & Head Girl , and various committees — students are encouraged to express their views, take initiative, and contribute to meaningful decision-making. These roles foster a sense of responsibility, build confidence, and nurture skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Student Leadership Team
At the heart of student leadership in Ardgillan College is our Student Leadership Team, made up of the Head Boy, Head Girl, Deputy Head Boy, Deputy Head Girl, and Head Prefects. The Student Leadership Team plays a central role in representing the student body, supporting school events, and promoting a positive school atmosphere. As key ambassadors for Ardgillan College, they regularly work with staff and students to foster a spirit of Teamwork, Respect and Excellence.
Prefects
Our 6th Year Prefects play a vital role in promoting a positive school culture and setting a strong example for their peers. Appointed from our senior student body, Prefects are recognised for their leadership qualities, reliability, and commitment to the values of the school.
Student Council
The Student Council at Ardgillan College plays a key role in ensuring that the voices of students are heard, respected, and reflected in school life. Made up of elected representatives from all year groups, the Council provides a structured platform for students to share ideas, raise concerns, and contribute to positive change within the school community.
Focus Groups
At Ardgillan College, student voice is more than just a concept — it’s a key part of how we grow and improve as a school. Our student focus groups provide a valuable space for targeted discussion, reflection, and collaboration on specific areas of school life. Focus groups are made up of students from a range of year groups who come together to share their thoughts, experiences, and suggestions on particular themes — such as teaching and learning, wellbeing, inclusion, or school facilities. These groups allow students to speak openly in a supportive setting, helping staff to better understand student perspectives.
I dreamed I stood in a studio And watched two sculptors there. The clay they used was a young child’s mind And they fashioned it with care.
One was a Teacher, the tools she used Were Books and Music and Art: One was a Parent with a guiding hand And a gentle loving heart.
Day after day the Teacher toiled With touch that was deft and sure While the parent laboured by her side And polished and smoothed it o’er
And when their last task was done They were proud of what they had wrought For the things they moulded in the child Could neither be sold or bought.
And each agreed that they would have failed If they had worked alone, For behind the parent stood the School And behind the Teacher, the Home.
