Last year, Rockwell College proudly welcomed girls to its residence for the first time, with 21 girls staying on campus for the 2023/24 academic year.
This historic move made Rockwell College Ireland’s first co-educational Catholic boarding school. This change has been a significant success, creating a more inclusive and enriched educational environment.
Nestled on a sprawling 100-acre campus in Co. Tipperary, Rockwell College has long been a beacon of academic excellence and holistic development.
For 35 years, girls have attended the school, traditionally residing with local host families.
Now, with the introduction of girls to the boarding residence, these students can enjoy the same high-quality educational experience as their male counterparts, further enhancing the inclusive community spirit of Rockwell College.
Residence Manager, Dean Hand, remarked, “The transition to welcoming girl boarders at Rockwell College has been seamless.
“The girls have brought a new energy and perspective to our community, and it is inspiring to see how well everyone has adapted and embraced this change.
“Our focus has always been on creating a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for all our students, and this past year has reaffirmed our commitment to those values.”
For the 2024/25 academic year, Rockwell College is thrilled to have 42 girls confirmed to join the residence.
This growing interest reflects the positive impact of the co-educational boarding environment and the successful integration of girl boarders into the community.
Aoife O’Farrell, a 6th-year student and last year’s boarders’ prefect, shared her experience: “I was part of the historic beginning of girls living on site this year.
“It was a fantastic experience, and I made the most amazing memories. The staff take pride in their jobs and are so helpful and caring.
“We really look out for each other; we are like a big family. Residence is truly a home away from home.”
Both girl and boy students have continued to excel academically, socially, and in extracurricular activities.
The girl boarders have made significant contributions to the school’s legacy of excellence. From participating in sports and arts to leading student organisations, they have showcased their talents and leadership, enriching the school culture in many ways.
Parents and guardians have also expressed their appreciation for the positive impact of this transition.
Many have noted the improved convenience of dropping their sons and daughters at the same location, as well as the enhanced sense of community and mutual respect among students, which has fostered a more collaborative and supportive learning environment.
As Rockwell College celebrates this successful first year, it looks forward to building on this foundation and continuing to provide an exceptional educational experience for all students.
The inclusion of girl boarders has undoubtedly made Rockwell College a stronger and more vibrant community, and the institution is excited about the future as it continues to grow and evolve together.
Here’s to many more years of growth, achievement, and shared success at Rockwell College!
Check out the Rockwell College website here.
