Meanscoil Phadraig Naofa
School Details
Location
About
St Patrick’s Secondary School (Meanscoil Phadraig Naofa) is a co‑educational secondary school situated in Castleisland, County Kerry. The school’s ethos centres on providing a holistic education that nurtures academic, personal, sporting and social development. It promotes close collaboration between the school, families and the local community, and aims to create an interactive learning environment with small class sizes and a strong focus on student‑centred teaching. Modern technology is integrated throughout the curriculum, ensuring pupils have access to up‑to‑date resources and digital tools. The campus boasts a range of state‑of‑the‑art facilities, including a fully equipped science laboratory, an engineering workshop, a woodwork area, a technical graphics studio and a dedicated home economics suite. Additional provisions comprise a well‑resourced computer lab, broadband connectivity, and extensive sports facilities that support a thriving programme in basketball, rugby and football. These resources underpin the school’s commitment to developing each learner’s talents and preparing them for future professional pathways while fostering a safe, supportive and vibrant school culture.
History
St Patrick’s Boys Secondary School opened in the Carnegie Library, Castleisland, in September 1939 under the leadership of Sean Prendiville. It remained in the library until 1945, when Timothy Kerrisk assumed responsibility, and continued there until 1962 before relocating to the former boys’ national school on College Road, its present site. Kerrisk served as principal until 1986, succeeded by Dan O’ Connor who led the school until 2012. From 2012 to 2024 Denis O’Donovan held the position of principal and manager. In 2024 Tim Long, a former pupil, was appointed principal, continuing the long tradition of education at St Patrick’s Secondary School.