North Monastery Co-educational Secondary School
North Monastery Co-educational Secondary School, established in 1811, is a voluntary secondary school under the Edmund Rice Schools Trust (ERST). The Trust’s primary goal is to promote educational advancement in the tradition of Edmund Rice, supporting the development of values and educational principles rooted in this heritage. The educational approach in North Monastery Co-educational Secondary School, mirrors that of all the schools in the trust, and can be expressed in the following five key elements:
- Nurturing faith, Christian spirituality, and Gospel-based values
- Promoting Partnership
- Excelling in teaching and learning
- Creating a caring school community
- Inspiring transformational leadership
A brief history
North Monastery Co-educational Secondary School (formerly North Monastery Secondary School), often referred to as “North Mon,” has a long and distinguished history dating back to its founding in 1811 by the Presentation Brothers in Cork, Ireland. The school began as part of a mission to provide education for boys in Cork City, particularly serving the less privileged. Over time, it developed a reputation for excellence in both academics and athletics, producing notable alumni who contributed to Irish society in various fields, including sports, politics, and the arts.
In the mid-20th century, North Mon expanded its facilities and curriculum to keep pace with educational changes in Ireland, enhancing its science, technology, and arts programmes. In 2007, the school joined the Edmund Rice Schools Trust (ERST), aligning itself with a network of schools inspired by the values of Edmund Rice. This shift emphasised the school’s commitment to holistic education, focused on faith, community, and leadership.
In 2023, the school took a huge step forward by establishing itself as a co-educational secondary school, North Monastery continues its legacy of accessible, quality education, blending tradition with a modern approach to meet the evolving needs of its students.
