St. Louis Secondary School Kiltimagh.
In September, 1897, six Sisters of the St. Louis Order, arrived from their Convent in Monaghan to Kiltimagh, on the invitation of the Parish Priest Fr. Denis O’Hara.
They set up a technical school for the children of the Parish, followed by a school for young ladies. In 1908, the school became, primarily, a boarding school for girls. The school prospered with students winning prizes on a national scale for lace-making and proficiency in the Irish language. Gradually, throughout the century, St. Louis Convent Secondary School, Kiltimagh, became famous throughout the country for academic and cultural endeavours. In 1973, boys enrolled in the school for the first time and the boarding school was phased out. In 1992, the Sisters moved out of the school, and into a private residence in the town.
St. Louis Community School in Kiltimagh, Co. Mayo, was founded in 1993 with the amalgamation of St. Louis Secondary School and Coláiste Raisteirí Vocational School, and has a long history in the field of second level, third level (PLC) and community education. The Trustees of Our School are LeCheile / StLouis and Mayo, Sligo & Leitrim ETB.
‘The happy and positive environment in our school ensures that all our students are cherished equally and allowed to develop their own individuality in a comfortable and safe environment. Students at St. Louis reach the highest standards of academic success as measured by national league tables. It was designated one of the best two non-fee paying schools nationally (Irish Independent and Irish שּׂmes 2013). Department of Education inspection reports continually reflect the spirit of volunteerism, innovation and professionalism of the staff. The most recent Whole School Inspection report (December 2012) stated that we aspire to a “centre for excellence”, a comment of which we are rightfully proud. High academic success is furthered by the wide range of extra-curricular opportunities provided by the enthusiastic and motivated staff.’
Mr Cahil Doherty
(Principal)
Ms Finola Lyons
(Deputy Principal)
Modern teaching methods are explored in the school through our close relationship with a number of 3rd level Universities. Teachers are encouraged to explore active teaching methodologies and a large number have participated in the Instructional leadership programme and active teaching methodology workshops. We are a pilot school (only one in Mayo) for the Droichead Programme which puts us at the leading edge in assisting and developing newly qualified teachers.
An Roinn Oideachais agus Scileanna Department of Education and Skills Whole-School Evaluation Management, Leadership and Learning
Key Findings
– The school is inclusive, student-centred, innovative and progressive.
– A noteworthy sense of community and partnership that involves parents, students, staff and the board of management is evident throughout the school.
– There is a strong spirit of volunteerism and commitment among staff.
– There are effective formal and informal communication structures.
– The school’s open admissions policy, its broad curriculum, its facilities, and its commitment to providing student support are particular strengths.
– Good with elements of excellent practice.
