St Nathy's College
Ballaghaderreen, Roscommon
Key facts
- DEIS
- Mixed
- Pupils enrolled
- 687 larger than the median Irish post-primary school (585 pupils)
- Girls and boys
- 328 girls, 359 boys
- Ethos
- Catholic
- Teaching through Irish
- No subjects taught through Irish
- Roll number
- 68067P the Department of Education reference for this school
School details
Location
About
St Nathy’s College is a Catholic voluntary secondary school situated in the town of Ballaghaderreen, County Roscommon. Founded in 1810 by the Diocese of Achonry, the college serves as a centre of learning that nurtures the personal, physical, intellectual, moral and faith development of each pupil. The school’s ethos is rooted in a Christian environment that promotes inclusion, diversity and partnership with parents and the wider community. A strong emphasis is placed on encouraging students of all abilities to develop their talents and character, preparing them to contribute positively to home, parish and society. The college offers a broad curriculum across junior, senior and transition years, supported by a range of extracurricular activities, notably a successful soccer programme that has secured multiple Connacht titles. Modern digital provision is a priority, highlighted by a grant received under the Irish National Recovery and Resilience Plan to address the digital divide, and the use of the VSware platform which provides a single point of communication for parents, guardians and staff. Facilities include a chapel, sports fields and dedicated learning spaces, all designed to provide a secure, caring and stimulating environment for students.
History
St Nathy’s College was established in 1810 by the Diocese of Achonry as a centre of learning within a Catholic framework. Over more than two centuries the school has evolved into a modern secondary college while retaining its founding mission of fostering Christian values and academic excellence. In recent years the college was recognised as the first Champion School of Sanctuary in County Roscommon, reflecting its commitment to inclusion and support for all members of the community.
Applying to St Nathy's College
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 St Nathy's College. 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 St Nathy's College
How many pupils attend St Nathy's College?
St Nathy's College has 687 pupils enrolled, 328 girls and 359 boys. That makes it larger than the median Irish post-primary school, which has 585 pupils.
Is St Nathy's College a DEIS school?
Yes. St Nathy's College 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 St Nathy's College?
St Nathy's College has a Catholic ethos. It is a mixed post-primary school.