O'Connell Secondary School

Principal's Welcome

O’Connell Secondary School, Dublin

A Proud Tradition. A Strong Community. An Ambitious Future.

Welcome to O’Connell Secondary School

Located in the heart of Dublin city, O’Connell Secondary School has a proud history stretching back to 1828. Founded by the Christian Brothers, the school has served generations of young people and has played an important role in the life of the local community for almost two centuries.

Our history matters. It has shaped who we are today and provides a strong foundation on which to build our future.

A School Built on People and Relationships

At the heart of O’Connell secondary school are our students.

We want every young person who comes through our doors to feel that they belong, that they are valued and that they have the opportunity to succeed. We recognise that every student is different, with their own talents, interests, challenges and ambitions.

Our aim is to create an environment where students are encouraged to work hard, challenge themselves, support one another and take pride in their achievements.

This is supported by a dedicated and committed staff who understand that education is about much more than what happens in the classroom. Strong relationships, mutual respect and a positive school culture are central to the experience of every student.

Learning, Achievement and Opportunity

We have high expectations for our students and ourselves.

Through a broad and engaging curriculum, we seek to develop confident, independent and curious learners. Our teachers bring energy, expertise and enthusiasm to their classrooms, encouraging students to think critically, ask questions and develop a genuine love of learning.

Academic achievement is important, but so too is helping students to develop the skills, confidence and resilience they need to navigate an increasingly changing world.

We want our students to leave O’Connell’s with a strong sense of what they can achieve and with the ambition to make a positive contribution to the world around them.

Developing the Whole Person

School life at O’Connell secondary school extends well beyond the classroom.

Sport, the arts, extracurricular activities, leadership opportunities and involvement in the wider school community all contribute to the development of our students.

These experiences help young people to discover their strengths, develop friendships, build confidence and learn the importance of teamwork, commitment and resilience.

We want every student to find their place and their opportunity to shine.

A Welcoming and Inclusive Community

O’Connell’s is a diverse and vibrant school community.

We are committed to creating a school where everyone is treated with dignity and respect and where difference is recognised as something that strengthens our community.

Our students come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences, but we are united by a shared sense of belonging and a commitment to making O’Connell secondary school a positive place in which to learn and work.

Proud of Our Past. Focused on Our Future.

While we are proud of our long history, we are equally focused on the future.

Education continues to change rapidly and our school must continue to evolve with it. We will embrace new ideas, new technologies and new approaches to teaching and learning while remaining true to the values and traditions that have shaped O’Connell’s over generations.

Our ambition is simple: to build on the strengths of the school, to listen to our students, staff, parents and wider community, and to ensure that O’Connell secondary continues to be a school in which young people can thrive.

O’Connell Secondary School, Dublin

Regards,

Ronan Coone – Principal

Mary Timmons – Vice Principal

© 2026 O'Connell Secondary School