Coláiste Éamann Rís
Cork
Key facts
- DEIS
- Mixed
- Pupils enrolled
- 811 larger than the median Irish post-primary school (585 pupils)
- Girls and boys
- 355 girls, 456 boys
- Ethos
- Catholic
- Teaching through Irish
- No subjects taught through Irish
- Roll number
- 62540I the Department of Education reference for this school
School details
Location
About
Coláiste Éamann Rís is a vibrant co‑educational secondary school situated in the heart of Cork City. Rooted in the Edmund Rice tradition, the school embraces the Gaelic motto *Uaisleacht*, encouraging strength of character, nobility of spirit and kindness of heart in every pupil. The curriculum is structured across the Junior Cycle, Fourth Year and Senior Cycle, providing a comprehensive academic programme that balances rigorous study with personal development. The school’s ethos prioritises a supportive community where high expectations are matched by mutual respect, integrity and positive relationships. Innovative teaching practices, a wide range of extracurricular activities and strong links with families and the wider community create an environment that nurtures both academic excellence and personal growth. Recent whole‑school inspection reports highlight excellent classroom management, an outstanding atmosphere and highly effective teaching staff, underscoring the school’s commitment to delivering a well‑rounded education.
History
Coláiste Éamann Rís is the oldest school on Cork’s southside. It was originally founded in 1828 on Sullivan’s Quay by the Christian Brothers. In September 2019 the school was rededicated and renamed Coláiste Éamann Rís, becoming the first English‑speaking co‑educational Catholic secondary school in Cork City. The new name, Irish for “Edmund Rice College”, honours the school’s founder, Blessed Edmund Rice, and reflects its transition to co‑education.
Applying to Coláiste Éamann Rís
For a September 2027 place, a school's formal admissions process cannot begin before 1 October 2026. The school sets its own opening and closing dates in its annual admission notice.
National term dates 2026/27
Irish schools follow a standardised school year, so these nationwide post-primary school dates apply broadly to Coláiste Éamann Rís. Individual schools set their own discretionary closure days, confirm exact dates with the school.
- October Mid-Term Break: Mon 26 Oct – Fri 30 Oct 2026
- Christmas Holidays: Wed 23 Dec 2026 – Tue 5 Jan 2027
- February Mid-Term Break: Mon 15 Feb – Fri 19 Feb 2027 (primary schools: Thu 18 Feb – Fri 19 Feb 2027)
- Easter Holidays: Mon 22 Mar – Sun 4 Apr 2027
Primary schools close for the last two days of the February mid-term week and may use discretionary days to take the full week, so their break can be shorter than post-primary schools'.
Frequently asked questions about Coláiste Éamann Rís
How many pupils attend Coláiste Éamann Rís?
Coláiste Éamann Rís has 811 pupils enrolled, 355 girls and 456 boys. That makes it larger than the median Irish post-primary school, which has 585 pupils.
Is Coláiste Éamann Rís a DEIS school?
Yes. Coláiste Éamann Rís is part of DEIS, the Department of Education programme called Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools. DEIS schools serve communities at risk of educational disadvantage and receive additional supports, which can include smaller classes, extra teaching posts and funding for books and meals.
What is the ethos of Coláiste Éamann Rís?
Coláiste Éamann Rís has a Catholic ethos. It is a mixed post-primary school.