Education, instruction, teaching, and learning in the city of Armagh, Northern Ireland, are the focal points of this part of our web guide.
Often referred to as the "ecclesiastical capital of Ireland," Armagh has a long tradition of education and learning.
Armagh's educational legacy began in the 5th century when Saint Patrick established a church in the city, declaring it a hub for Christian education. The city became a beacon of scholarship, attracting students and scholars from across Ireland and beyond.
The Book of Armagh, a 9th-century manuscript, is a testament to the city's scholarly heritage. Over the years, Armagh has maintained its reputation as a place of intellectual and spiritual growth, with its two cathedrals and the Armagh Observatory further cementing its status as a center for learning.
Armagh is home to several primary schools, each offering unique educational experiences. Armstrong Primary School is known for its inclusive environment and focus on holistic development, while Christian Brothers Primary School is a Catholic institution emphasizing moral and academic excellence. Drelincourt School specialises in early childhood education. Domintee Primary School is a community-focused school with strong family ties, and Drumhillery Primary School is known for its commitment to academic achievement and extra-curricular activities. Mount St. Catherine's Primary School is a Catholic school with a strong emphasis on faith-based education, and the Royal School Preparatory School is associated with the Royal School, preparing pupils for secondary education. Saints and Scholars Integrated Primary School promotes inclusivity and diversity, welcoming students from all backgrounds. St. Malachy's Primary School is a well-established institution focusing on academic and personal development. St. Patrick's Primary School is known for its dedication to fostering a love of learning.
The city's post-primary schools include the City of Armagh High School, a non-denominational school providing a broad curriculum and extra-curricular activities. St. Catherine's College is a Catholic girls' school with a strong academic record. St. Patrick's Grammar School is a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academic standards and extra-curricular programmes. One of the oldest schools in Ireland, Royal School Armagh combines tradition with modern education, offering both day and boarding options. Southern Regional College is a leading provider of further and higher education, offering a wide range of vocational and academic courses.
Other instructional institutions and programmes in Armagh include the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, a center for astronomical research and public education. Additionally, Southern Regional College and other local organisations offer technical training and tutoring services.
Blevins Academy of Dance and Drama offers classes in performing arts for all age groups, while Water Babies of Orchard Leisure Centre provides swimming lessons for infants and young children.
These and other institutions, programmes, or facilities offering education, instruction, teaching, or training in Armagh are appropriate topics for this category.
Recommended Resources
Armagh Observatory & Planetarium
Situated next to one another, the observatory is an astronomical research institute in Armagh, Northern Ireland, while the planetarium is an educational facility that complements the observatory. Catering to all age groups, the planetarium hosts school visits that include dome shows, hands-on workshops, and exhibition areas. The staff engages with the public through outreach initiatives, promoting science and astronomy. For advanced learners, they offer PhD opportunities.
https://www.armagh.space/
Charles Wood Festival & Summer School
The annual event celebrates the music of Charles Wood and provides opportunities for singers, organists, and choir directors to develop their talents. The festival includes choral courses, vocal tuition, and competitions like the Northern Ireland International Organ Competition. Charles Wood, a renowned musician and composer, was born in Armagh in 1866, receiving his musical education in the cathedral opposite his home and later studying at the Royal College of Music.
https://www.charleswoodsummerschool.org/
Christian Brothers Primary School, Armagh
Located on Greenpark, Keady Road, Armagh, Northern Ireland, the Christian Brothers Primary School offers a range of educational programmes and activities for its pupils, including after-school clubs, sports teams, and creative arts programmes. Its mission statement, organisation and management, school uniform policies, admission criteria, school curriculum, breakfast and after-school clubs, school meals, and policies for absences are set forth, and staff introductions are provided.
https://www.armaghcbs.com/
With roots going back to 1738, The Drelincourt School is a historic institution in Armagh, Northern Ireland. Founded by Madam Drelincourt in memory of her husband, Dean Peter Drelincourt, as a charity school, it initially served 40 pupils in a building on Navan Street. Today, the school specialises in educating children from Years 1 to 3, and is affiliated with the Churhc of Ireland. Situated beside the Folly woodland, it offers outdoor living opportunities, but is being considered for closure.
https://www.drelincourt.org.uk/
The co-educational voluntary grammar school was founded in the 17th century. Located in Armagh, Northern Ireland, the school has boarding facilities and an international intake. Affiliated with the Church of Ireland, the school was one of several free schools created by King James I of England and Ireland in 1708 to educate the sons of local Protestant merchants and farmers during the plantation of Ulster. Admissions policies, curriculum, co-curricular, and a school calendar are posted.
https://royalschool.com/
Saints & Scholars Integrated Primary School
Located on Killuney Park Road in Armagh, Northern Ireland, the grant-maintained integrated school caters to boys and girls aged 4 to 11, with a nursery unit attached. The school emphasizes inclusivity, celebrating diversity in traditions, religions, and cultures. Formed in 1993, the school opened in September of 1994, and its nursery unit opened in 2000. Its history, staff, governors, a prospectus, and admissions process are featured. Class pages, nursery programme, and contacts are included.
https://www.saintsandscholarsips.org/
SRC is a further and higher education college in the southern area of Northern Ireland. Formed in 2007 following the merger of Armagh College, Newry and Kilkeel Institute, and the Upper Bann Institute, the college has five campuses incorporating the two council areas of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon and Newry, Mourne and Down. Its campuses, courses, contacts, and job opportunities are featured on the site, along with staff, student, and applicant resources.
https://www.src.ac.uk/
St. Catharine's College, Armagh
Formed in 1973 when the existing Convent of the Sacred Heart Grammar and secondary schools were re-organized to provide secondary education for all the Catholic girls in the greater Armagh area, Saint Catharine's is an all-level Catholic school in Armagh, Northern Ireland. Associated with the international group of schools served by the Society of the Sacred Heart, the school enrols girls in the 11-18 age group, while its Information and Communication Technology programme is co-educational.
https://www.stcatherinesarmagh.com/
Saint Malachy's in Armagh, Northern Ireland, is located on Chapel Lane. Recognized for its welcoming community, emphasis on learning, and strong Catholic ethos, the school takes pride in its recognition as a "Digital School of Distinction" and has achieved notable success in competitions. The school website features its mission statement, staff, board of governors, class-specific pages, clubs, councils, contacts, and resources for parents, along with links to other resources.
https://www.stmalachysprimary.org/
Established as a junior seminary by Archbishop Crolly in 1838, the school was under the direction of priests of the Archdiocese of Armagh until 1861 when the Vincentian Order was invited to take charge of the school. They continued their apostolate in Armagh until the amalgamation. The Irish Christian Brothers operated the school from 1851 to 1999. The school is a non-selective, all-ability Catholic boys' post-primary school. Its mission statement, values, team, and schedules are featured.
https://stpatricksarmagh.org/
