History

Early Beginnings

Adult classes in domestic science and woodwork are held in the local Ossory Agricultural Society hall and later in a small house beside the convent gates.

Vocational Education Established

27 day-students and 92 adult evening-class attendees in Rathdowney mark the establishment of continuing vocational education locally.

Foundation

The school acquires its present site (then known as the Circus Field) and opens a purpose-built building with three rooms — Domestic Science, Science, and Woodwork — under Principal Patrick Hoare.

Expansion

A metalwork room and a commerce room are added as the school expands its practical subjects.

Leaving Certificate

Students sit the Leaving Certificate for the first time, allowing full secondary-level education to be completed at Rathdowney.

Major Building Project

A new building project commences to provide modern general-purpose classrooms, a science suite, IT facilities and administration space.

Renamed St Fergal's College

The school is officially renamed "St Fergal's College" and commences with approximately 470 pupils.

Further Expansion

A new building with classrooms and a science room is added.

Land Purchase

The school purchases 4.7 acres of land to create two large pitches and a training area.

Unified Campus

A new building is completed, connecting the separate structures into one unified school building, including three new classrooms, a science room, an art room, meeting rooms and offices.