Minister Naughton visit to Christian Brothers College in Kilkenny to unveil plaque marking the official opening of its new campus
- Published on: 27 April 2026
- Last updated on: 27 April 2026
The modern campus represents a powerful investment in the education of young people for generations to come
Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton visited Christian Brothers College, Kilkenny on Thursday 23rd April where she unveiled a commemorative plaque celebrating the official opening of the school.
The school also marked the planned opening of two classes in the ASD unit in August 2026.
The school has had a very rich history in the city of Kilkenny, and the relocation of Christian Brothers College to Dunningstown Road has marked the beginning of a significant new and exciting chapter for the entire school community.
Minister Naughton said:
“I congratulate everyone involved in bringing this ambitious and long-term project to completion.”
The Minister referred to the long history of the school, stating: “Christian Brothers education in Kilkenny began in 1859 on James’s 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.
“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, Mr 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.
While in Kilkenny, the Minister will visit Kilkenny City Vocational School this afternoon.
The Minister will also visit a number of other schools today including:
- - St Joseph’s National School in Carlow where she will open a parents’ room.
- - St Mary’s Academy CBS, Carlow, where she will witness first-hand the dedicated work being undertaken at the schools.
Notes to editors
Kilkenny
- Since 2020, the Department of Education has provided €210.08 million in capital funding for Kilkenny schools.
- Over this period, a total of 43 schools have been upgraded either through provision of a new school building, a large-scale extension or provision of modular accommodation.
- There are currently 4 school projects in Kilkenny under construction.
- Another 3 school projects will go to tender or construction in 2026 and 2027, and this summer, 5 schools are approved to undergo works as part of the Climate Action Summer Works Scheme.
- In addition, since 2020 a total of 50 special classes have been opened in Kilkenny, of which 13 were sanctioned for September 2026.
Carlow
- Since 2020, the Department of Education has provided €51.53 million in capital funding for Carlow schools.
- Over this period, a total of 25 schools have been upgraded either through provision of a new school building, a large-scale extension or provision of modular accommodation.
- There are currently 4 school projects in Carlow under construction.
- Another 3 school projects will go to tender or construction in 2026 and 2027, and this summer, 5 schools are approved to undergo works as part of the Climate Action Summer Works Scheme.
- In addition, since 2020 a total of 33 special classes have been opened in Carlow, of which 6 were sanctioned for September 2026.
ENDS