Major shift in Mayo co-education as two schools move closer to amalgamation
Boards and patrons of two Claremorris secondary schools confirm preference for a single campus model
A major step toward the future structure of post-primary education in Claremorris has been signalled following joint statements from the patrons and Boards of Management of two local secondary schools.
This confirmed momentum toward the amalgamation of Mount St. Michael Secondary School and St Colman’s College into a single coeducational campus.
The statement outlines the outcome of an extensive consultation process carried out in 2023 under patron bodies CEIST and the Archdiocese of Tuam, which found an overwhelming preference for co-education in a unified school setting.
While engagement has taken place with the Department of Education and Youth regarding a full amalgamation supported by capital investment, the patrons noted that funding was not available at the time as the Department was not in a position to commit capital funding for a new campus.
In 2025, both schools applied separately to change status to coeducational, though the Patrons said this was described as a less optimal interim solution due to infrastructure needs. They stressed that a single capital investment in one shared campus would be “more sustainable and beneficial, both economically and socially.”
In their joint statement, the patrons said a single capital investment in one shared campus would be “more sustainable and beneficial” economically and socially, and confirmed continued engagement with the Department to progress the proposal of a single-school model for the town.
In a separate joint statement, the Boards of Management of both schools said they “note and support” the Patrons’ position and acknowledged the outcome of the consultation process, which strongly favoured coeducation in a unified setting.
They said that, in light of the Patrons’ intention to pursue an amalgamated Catholic coeducational school, the Boards now recognise that “the preferred way forward is to amalgamate both schools into a single shared school campus.”
The Boards confirmed that, once timelines are clarified, they will begin preparations to manage the transition and ensure it is implemented in a “smooth and carefully managed” manner.
They also emphasised that their immediate priority remains the day-to-day education and wellbeing of students across both schools.
“The Boards are committed to communicating carefully, responsibly and in a timely manner as further information becomes available,” the statement said, adding praise for staff and appreciation of parental support throughout the process.
Board representatives from both schools signed the statement, confirming their commitment to planning for the future of Catholic post-primary education in Claremorris moves forward.