New era to begin in Louth with official opening of Gaelcholáiste Dhún Dealgan

The first Irish-medium secondary school in Louth, Gaelcholáiste Dhún Dealgan, will officially open on Saturday 6 September.

Gaelcholáiste Dhún Dealgan is the only Irish-Medium secondary school under the patronage of An Foras Patrúnachta within a 60km range. It is a satellite school of Coláiste Ghlór na Mara, Balbriggen, Co. Dublin. An Foras Patrúnachta is the largest provider of Irish Medium Education.

The General Secretary warmly welcomed the development saying: “We are delighted that the community in Louth, and surrounding counties, now have the option of a co-educational, multi-denominational, Irish-medium second-level education.”

There are Irish medium primary schools in the area and students can now continue with their secondary education through the medium of Irish. That choice has not been available for some years now. 

Since Gaelcholáiste Dhún Dealgan first opened in 2023, it has welcomed students from both Irish medium and English medium primary schools.The school provides a high standard of education from first through to third year at present.

Transition Year will be available next year, 2026-27 and the Senior Cycle the following year, 2027-28. There is a wide choice of optional subjects, including Music, Spanish, French, Visual Art, Home Economics, Science, Business Studies and Geography.

Renovation works are ongoing, with the addition of a new Home Economics kitchen during the summer and enhancements to the school grounds, including a basketball court.

While Gaelcholáiste Dhún Dealgan is still a small school community, it is set to grow and flourish with the support of the local community and the wider community.

A Family Fun Day will take place on the school campus, Robin House, The Ramparts, Dundalk A91XC59 between 2.00 – 5.00 pm on Saturday 6 September.

Speaking ahead of the event, Príomhoide Tánaisteach Caoimhe said: “We want to give people the chance to experience the spirit of a Gaelcholáiste and to meet our fantastic students and teachers. Families can come together to enjoy a fun day out while also discovering the many benefits of Irish-medium education.”

The Family Fun Day will feature free activities for all ages, including face painting, music, sports, games, and much more. Visitors will also have the opportunity to tour the school and celebrate as the community officially opens the Gaelcholáiste with the help of a special guest.

The school says it wishes to thank COGG (An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta) who provided funding for this event. For further information, please contact eolas@gcdd.ie or visit the school's social media pages.