Tipperary school to open its doors to girls for first time in 120 year history

A Tipperary school is set to open their doors to girls in 2026 for the first time in its 120 year history.

Cistercian College in Roscrea has been a boys-only school since it opened its doors in 1905, but next September, the North Tipperary school will open its doors to girls.

Speaking to the Irish Independent, the President of Cistercian College Colm Maloney, said the move is being made for "gender equality" and is historic for the school.

"We want to cater for entire families, for boys and girls - for sisters to attend the same, as their brothers. It’s a hugely historic decision, as Cistercian College has been a boys only school for 120 years," he told the Irish Independent.

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"The Cistercian Order and school as a whole, feel we should extend to girls and the whole family. This reflects society and workplaces. We want to make sure we’re part of the future.

"It can only have a positive effect on gender equality. What we’re doing is mirroring a societal shift in Ireland, under way for a number of years. It’s great to see the Cisterccian Order, our patrons, are fully behind the move as well," Mr Moloney added.

The private school offers seven-day boarding, five-day boarding, and day fees.

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The seven-day boarding fee currently stands at €19,368, fees for five-day boarding are €18,368, while day fees are €8,845.