Stanhope Street Girls Secondary School
School Details
Location
About
Stanhope Secondary School is situated in the historic Stoneybatter district of Dublin 7, occupying its own private grounds accessed from Manor Street. The campus is bordered by the River Liffey to the south and the expansive Phoenix Park to the west and north, providing a unique urban oasis for outdoor learning, cross‑country running and recreational activities. The school offers a full secondary curriculum, including Junior Cycle, Transition Year, the Leaving Certificate and Leaving Certificate Applied, and places a strong emphasis on cultural development through sport, drama and music programmes. The ethos of the school is rooted in Christian values and the inclusive philosophy of its founding Sisters of Charity, aiming to nurture the holistic development of each pupil. A warm, caring atmosphere underpins a learning environment that seeks to equip students with the academic, social and personal skills required for confident, responsible participation in society. While historically a girls’ school, Stanhope now admits both girls and boys into first year, maintaining a focus on empowering young people to become independent and resilient members of the community.
History
The school’s origins trace back to 1815 when a Novitiate House for the Irish Sisters of Charity was founded by Mary Aikenhead. Over time the institution evolved into Stanhope Secondary School, governed by a Board of Management with the Religious Sisters of Charity as trustees. The school continues to uphold its founder’s inclusive philosophy and open admissions policy.