Coláiste Lorcáin is a co-educational second level school catering for students of all denominations. The school came to existence in July 1984 as a result of an amalgamation between the Vocational School, Castledermot and St. Mary's Secondary School. the school is dedicated to St. Laurence O'Toole, the patron saint of the Arch Diocese of Dublin, who was born in the parish of Castledermot around the year 1123. The decision to amalgamate was based on the knowledge that while both schools had their own strengths and resources, the combination of both would enhance the educational experience of all the students.
In the intervening years the school has grown from strength to strength. it boasts exceptionally good facilities offering a broad curriculum. Much of the school and classrooms have undergone refurbishment and modernisation in recent years. the teaching of the sciences, engineering , wood and graphics are enhanced through modern and highly resourced laboratories and workshops.
Management
As a Designated Community College, Colaiste Lorcain was the first school in Kildare VEC to have its own Board of Management. The BOM has guided the school through its early years to become a school of choice for many families, both local and beyond.
The school is under the direction of a Board of Management which includes representatives of the Sisters - The Poor Servants of the Mother of God, Kildare Vocational Education Committee, the parents and teachers of the school.
Co-Educational
Coláiste Lorcáin is a co-educational school. We believe that co-education is the most natural form of education and that it has distinct advantages for boys and girls alike. Being co-eduational allows us to offer a much broader range of subjects and these are on offer to both girls and boys on an equal footing. Thus, the principle of gender equity is upheld in the school. Boys may take subjects such as Home Economics, Music and Art, Craft and Design. Likewise girls may choose subjects like Technology, Technical Graphics and Materials Technology Wood. Such choices allow for the development of a broader range of skills suited to each individual as well as opening up a wide range of career opportunities.
Parents' Council
The Parents' Council which is in existence since the inception of the school is a great support to the school management, staff and student. The Council has remained closely linked to the day-to-day business of the school through regular meetings with management and teachers. The Council has been a resource for support through fundraising, allowing for the expansion of extracurricular and the broader curriculum. It has helped parents to work together through seminars, weekend courses and other activities.
Student Council
The school's Student Council encourages students to play a role in the overall management of the school. The Council attracts membership from students from first to sixth year student. They meet on a regular basis and bring forward proposals and insights from the student perspective.