Rathdown School Competitors

Blackrock College was founded in 1860 by Pere Jules Leman CSSp. and his French companions. They had a dual aim to train personnel for missionary service in the Third World and to provide a first class Catholic education for Irish boys. The French tradition of a wide cultural education was developed down the years as the College grew in both numbers and in reputation. New buildings were added over time to meet the increased demand for places and to provide the best possible facilities for students. The Spiritan ethos impels the students to lead their lives with a generosity of spirit that reaches out to those who endure hardship and disadvantage. As a result of this constant striving for excellence which is essential to the Blackrock College ethos, year after year, Blackrock College alumni went on to achieve much and contribute greatly, in very public and in less high-profile ways, to society both in Ireland and abroad. Today, there are over 1000 students both day and boarding (in Williamstown Castle), enjoying excellent facilities located within 56 acres of rolling parkland on the broad sweep of Dublin Bay in South County Dublin. The College motto ‘Fides et Robur’- Faith and Fortitude is very much alive at Blackrock today. The students are educated and very well prepared for the world which awaits them equipping them with ability and skills to emulate the achievements and contributions made by generations of ‘Rockmen’ before them.

Clongowes Wood College, Clane, Co Kildare is Ireland's premier boarding school Clongowes Wood College is a seven-day boarding school located in beautiful surroundings, twenty miles from Dublin in the heart of Co. Kildare. We are a home from home for four hundred and fifty pupils from all four provinces of Ireland and abroad. Clongowes is a Jesuit Catholic school that strives to support students in their growth towards a greater understanding and awareness of their faith and the part that this plays in their lives. Our primary objective is to provide an environment where students not only learn more about spirituality and the Christian faith, but also try to integrate their own spirituality into daily living. For 200 years Clongowes has been producing an open, happy, stimulating, mutually respectful community in which young people are able to develop the full range of their talents and abilities in a balanced, integrated and generous way. A key characteristic of Jesuit Education, ‘cura personalis’ (care of the person), is at the centre of all that we do. In attempting to cater for all students, Clongowes provides a great variety of experiences that support our students in developing their faith by creating an atmosphere of openness, acceptance and a willingness to search.

The King’s Hospital School is a leading co-educational secondary school for boarders and day students, where academic excellence meets a vibrant community spirit. Community Engagment is one of our pillars and with a vast network of past pupils, parents and staff, we love to stay connected through our events, outreach, and by matching their wisdom, knowledge and experience with the curiosity of our students. If you are an existing member of our school community and wish to find out more about reconnecting or giving back, please contact Síle Jio s.jio@thekingshospital.ie. Nestled on a stunning 80-acre campus in Palmerstown, close to Dublin City, our school offers easy access to major motorways, train links, and Dublin Airport, making it a convenient home for families across Ireland and beyond. With a history dating back to 1669, we combine tradition with innovation, offering a broad academic curriculum supported by exceptional extracurricular opportunities in sports, performing arts, and more. Our facilities include world-class amenities and modern boarding suites designed to create a welcoming environment for teenagers. We are proud to be the first school in Ireland to receive the IQM Inclusive School Award, a testament to our commitment to embracing diversity and ensuring every student feels valued and supported. Guided by the Church of Ireland values of Compassion, Integrity, and Curiosity, we nurture confident, resilient young people who are prepared to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. At The King’s Hospital School, we aim to be a home away from home for our students, fostering strong friendships, self-discipline, and respect for others. Our dedicated teachers, coaches, and pastoral team ensure that each student leaves inspired, prepared, and ready to make a positive impact. To learn more about joining our inclusive and dynamic community, visit our Admissions page or contact us at khadmissions@thekingshospital.ie or +353 1 643-6564.