Education Minister Hails Coláiste Bhríde as 'True Community Hub' for South Wicklow

Minister Hildegarde Naughton visits Carnew school to celebrate its central role serving 15 feeder schools across the region

Coláiste Bhríde in Carnew is a 'flagship example' of how rural schools anchor community life according to Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton. 

During her tour of the campus today the Minister will meet with students, staff and members of the school community, examining facilities that now serve young people from across south Wicklow and north Wexford.

A 90-Year Legacy of Service

Built in 1936, Coláiste Bhríde has evolved significantly over nine decades, with successive extensions reflecting its growth as a regional educational powerhouse. The school now draws its student body from 15 rural feeder schools, cementing its position as a vital educational anchor for the wider area.

But what sets the school apart, according to Minister Naughton, is far more than its academic credentials.

"Coláiste Bhríde is a school with a proud tradition of serving its local community," the Minister said. "It provides students with a supportive and nurturing environment where they are encouraged to achieve their full potential, both academically and personally."

Beyond the Classroom

The school's reach extends well beyond the school day. Local groups, clubs and organisations use the facilities throughout the week, transforming what could have been an isolated institution into a genuine community resource.

This multipurpose approach to rural education struck a chord with Minister Naughton, who highlighted the broader significance for rural Ireland.

"What is particularly striking about Coláiste Bhríde is the deep connection between the school and the wider community. The school's facilities are used by local groups, clubs and organisations throughout the week, making it a true community hub," she said.

"This highlights something very important about the role of schools in rural Ireland. Schools are not only centres of education, they are places where communities can come together, where lifelong friendships are formed and where a strong sense of belonging is being fostered."

The Success Story Behind the Numbers

The Minister acknowledged that such success doesn't happen by accident. It's built on the shoulders of multiple stakeholders working in concert.

"The success of the school is built on the dedication and commitment of many people, including the staff, students, parents, Board of Management, Kildare and Wicklow ETB, the excellent student council, and the wider community," Minister Naughton said.

That collaborative ethos—spanning educators, families, local leadership and the education authority—reflects a model of rural education that many smaller communities across Wicklow and beyond are seeking to replicate.

For Coláiste Bhríde, the Minister's visit represents official recognition of work that has quietly shaped generations of young people from across the region.

Coláiste Bhríde, Carnew, Co. Wicklow, serves 850 students from feeder schools including areas across south Wicklow and north Wexford.