College Chapel

Harry Clarke

In keeping with the rich legacy in Ireland of stained glass, St. Kieran’s College has fine examples of the art designed by Harry Clarke. These windows were executed by his Studios and can be admired in the College Chapel.

Over the years and in keeping with best practice in relation to the upkeep of stained glass, in the avoidance of unnecessary work, the College Authorities did not worry unduly about the condition of the stained glass windows and their maintenance. However in 2005, the College President became concerned about the impact of the protective storm glazing which had been installed many years previously on the chapel windows. As a result, two specialist firms were engaged to investigate fully, survey and report on the condition of the stained glass.

The conservation project was initiated in July 2006 and was concluded in July 2008. The confirmation of an initial Conservation Grant of €10,000 from the Department of Environment, Heritage & Local Government via Kilkenny County Council, in June 2007 helped to kick-start the actual work itself of conservation. The company, which guaranteed that they followed stated accepted best practice and which detailed the methodology they employed, were commissioned to carry out 3/5 of the work required.

The recommendations made were followed to the letter, with respect for the existing fabric and with a huge emphasis on reconstruction rather than re-creation.

In the final report from the Conservation Architect, the College President was greatly relieved and delighted to read that the works agreed, which excluded the outer lancet windows in the Sanctuary, were completed to a high standard. As a result the beautiful stained glass windows continue in their special role in illuminating the sacred space that is the College Chapel.

Pipe Organ

The Pipe Organ is situated on the west gallery of the beautiful College Chapel. It dates from about the 1800s and has been extensively rebuilt. Unfortunately, very little of the original organ remains intact today. At present it is totally unplayable and in a poor state.

The last major rebuild of the pipe organ was in 1964. It was increased considerably in physical size and moved to the side of the gallery. It was also “modernised”. All the original mechanical tracker action and soundboard was thrown out and replaced with 1960’s electric extension chests and electric action. Now almost 50 years later these electrical installations need to be replaced.

The original casework is still intact and is made of solid oak. While it too has suffered over the years there now exists a unique opportunity to restore the organ to its original specification and dimensions, using historically correct soundboards. Should this project proceed it will bring to completion the refurbishment of the College Chapel at all levels.

If you approve of this work and wish to be associated with the project a contribution/donation would be most welcome at this time. The plan is to collect a minimum of €15,000 and begin the basic work required.

All contributions to:

The Pipe Organ Restoration Fund

The President,

St. Kieran’s College,

Kilkenny.

Student Choir

We are very fortunate here in St Kieran’s College to have excellent school choirs.  These students contribute greatly to the liturgical life of the college providing wonderful music for the college masses; of which our College feast day on the 5th March must be the highlight.

These students, however, also sing for the College Christmas Carol service and on many other occasions during the year. Here below is a short piece sung by the junior choir in the college chapel.

Harry Clarke Window
Harry Clarke Window

Key Dates

Key Dates

Please note: It may be necessary to reschedule some of the below times and dates. Please check the school website throughout the year for confirmation of the most up to date information.

August
Thursday 24th
6th year students return at 8:50
Friday 25th
3rd year students return 8:50am/ 1st Year Induction at 11am
Monday 28th
2nd year, 5th year and TY students return to school at 8:50am
September
Monday 18th
Open Evening
Friday 22nd
Sports Day
Monday 25th
School Closed
October
Thursday 19th (4:15-6:45pm)
6th Year P/T Meeting
Friday 27th
Mid-Term Break Begins @ 1pm
November
Monday 6th
School Reopens after Mid-Term Break
Thursdays 9th (7pm)
6th Year Careers Information Evening
Thursday 16th (4.15pm - 6.45pm)
3rd Year P/T Meeting
Thursday 23rd (4.15pm - 6.45pm)
5th Year P/T Meeting
Friday 24th
Staff Training Day (No School for Students)
Monday 27th
Staff Training Day (No School for Students)
December
Friday 14th
Christmas Carol Service @ 7:30pm
Friday 22nd
Christmas Holidays Begin @ 1pm
January
Monday 8th
School Reopens after Christmas Holidays
Thursday 11th (7pm)
Subject Choice Meeting for 1st Year Parents
Thursday 18th (4.15pm - 6.45pm)
1st Year P/T Meeting
Monday 22nd
Staff Training Day (No School for Students)
Thursday 25th (4.15pm - 6.45pm)
2nd Year P/T Meeting
February
Monday 29th (Jan) - Friday 9th (Feb)
Mock Examinations for JC & LC
Monday 5th
St Brigid's Day (School Closed)
Wednesday 7th (7pm)
Subject Choice Meeting for Transition Year Parents
Friday 9th
Mid -Term Break Begins @ 1pm
Monday 19th
School Reopens after Mid-Term Break
Thursday 22nd (4:15-6:45pm)
TY P/T Meeting
March
Friday 8th
St Kieran's Day Activities
Monday 18th
School Closed
Friday 22nd
Easter Holidays Begin @ 1pm
April
Monday 8th
School Reopens after Easter Holidays
Thursday 18th (7pm)
3rd Year Parents Information Evening for TY
May
Monday 6th
School Closed (Bank Holiday)
Tuesday 7th
School Closed
Friday 31st
Summer Holidays Begin
June
Wednesday 5th
Junior & Leaving cert exams start

Latest News

Feast of Saint Kieran

The 5th of March marks the feast day of our Patron Saint, Saint Kieran. A wonderful celebration of all that we are through communion, prayer, music and song was held in St Mary’s Cathedral.  

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JCPA Presentations

Well done to all our TY students who were presented with their Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement Certificates.      

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