School History

Becoming Mercy College: 1946–1976

The sisters of Mercy came to Sligo in 1846, some 68 years after the birth of Catherine McAuley, the foundress of the Mercy Order and just five years after her death in 1841.

In addition to works of mercy, education was an important ingredient in the vision of the foundress, Catherine McAuley. Thus, it was with this end in view that the sisters opened their school in 1849, the first public school, Scoil Phádraig Naofa. 100 pupils attended at first and by 1890, there were 600 girls and 200 boys enrolled in the school. 

In September 1946 the first pre-intermediate class of 19 students was formed. As numbers grew and classes multiplied, the need for new accommodation became acute. Negotiations with the Department of Education were stepped up and in 1976 the student body moved from the old building to the present building, thus becoming Mercy College.

Developing Our Facilities: The 1980s–2001

This was a time of great progress and excitement for the school. The mid-1980s saw a period of significant activity, with the sod turned for the new gym and the school continuing to grow and develop. The gym project progressed under the careful guidance of Principal Sr. Colette O’Rourke, supported by Deputy Principal Mrs. Mary McCarrick, who continued in the role until 1999.

In 1989, following Sr. Colette O’Rourke’s retirement, Sr. Mary Forde was appointed Principal. Under her leadership, the vision for the school’s continued development took on new dimensions. Several building projects were undertaken, including the addition of a new wing and a prayer room in 1992. Further development followed in 2001, with an extension providing a new staffroom and modern art and technology rooms.

A New Chapter in Leadership: 1999–2008

Changes in leadership continued as the school moved into the new millennium. Following Mrs. Mary McCarrick’s retirement in 1999, Mr. Joe Prior served as Deputy Principal until 2002, when Mrs. Carmel Duggan took up the position, remaining in the role until 2008.

September 2008 marked a significant new chapter in the school’s history, with Ms. Colette O’Hagan appointed Principal and Ms. Anne Gorby appointed Deputy Principal, bringing a new Senior Leadership Team to guide the school’s ongoing development.

Planning for the Future: 2019

In October 2019, the school received approval for a further extension, an important milestone in its plans for the future. The proposed development includes two general classrooms, a SET room, two classroom SEN bases, a textiles room, a science laboratory and preparation area, an art and craft room, an engineering room and preparation area, together with ancillary works. Although the project has yet to progress to construction, it remains a key priority for the school’s leadership team, who continue to work closely with the relevant authorities to bring this much-needed development to fruition.

Welcoming Our Leadership Team: 2020

January 2020 brought another change in leadership, with Ms. Anne Gorby taking up the position of Principal. She was joined in February 2020 by Mrs Lorraine Sherlock a past pupil of the school, who was appointed Deputy Principal. This appointment brought a special connection to the school’s history, as a former student returned to contribute to its continued growth and future development.

Learning Through the Pandemic

In March 2020, our school community experienced an unprecedented change as we transitioned from traditional classroom learning to remote online education. This shift, brought about by the global pandemic, required rapid adaptation from students, staff, and families alike.

From the outset, supporting our students (460 enrolment) remained at the heart of every decision. Teachers worked tirelessly to redesign lessons for an online environment, ensuring continuity of learning through virtual classrooms, digital resources, and regular check-ins. Pastoral care was strengthened, with staff maintaining close contact to support students’ wellbeing, offering reassurance and connection during a time of uncertainty. Despite these efforts, it was a challenging period for all. Students had to adjust to new routines, learn independently, and stay motivated while physically separated from their peers. Staff, too, embraced new technologies and teaching methods, often while balancing personal responsibilities at home.

A Place to Belong

Throughout this time, the school leadership team reflected deeply on what makes Mercy College special. While online platforms allowed learning to continue, something essential was missing—the vibrant energy that fills our corridors each day. The laughter of students, the buzz of conversation between classes, and the simple joy of being together form the true ‘heart’ of our school. Without these, the building felt quiet and incomplete.

As we adapted to this ‘new norm,’ our sense of community remained strong. The experience reminded us not only of our resilience, but also of the importance of connection, belonging, and the everyday moments that bring our school to life. During this time the school tag line ‘A Place To Belong’ really came into its own.

New Spaces for Sport and Outdoor Learning

Over a remarkably short number of years, our school has undergone a period of significant growth and development, enhancing both our facilities and the experiences available to our students. These improvements have been driven not only by forward-thinking planning, but also by the dedication and generosity of our wider school community.

Our Astro Pitch

A major milestone was the development of our on-site Astro Pitch, made possible through sustained fundraising efforts over several years. This facility has greatly enriched sporting opportunities, providing students with a high-quality space for physical education and extracurricular activities throughout the year. 

Our Secret Garden

Equally transformative has been the creation of our award-winning Secret Garden designed by Peter Donegan—an inspiring outdoor space designed to support wellbeing, creativity, and learning. Complete with an outdoor classroom, it offers an engaging environment where students can connect with nature while participating in a range of curricular and co-curricular activities.

Growing and Sustainability

The addition of a polytunnel has further expanded learning opportunities, allowing students to engage with hands-on experiences in growing and sustainability. This has supported the introduction of new curriculum modules, fostering practical skills and environmental awareness.

Supporting an Inclusive School Community: 2025

In September 2025 the school opened our fourth ASD classroom. The expansion of our ASD provision strengthens the inclusive ethos that is at the heart of school life. It allows us to provide enhanced support for pupils with additional needs while continuing to foster a culture of understanding, respect, and belonging throughout the entire school community. We are proud to create opportunities for all children to learn alongside one another, celebrate diversity, and develop the empathy and confidence that underpin a truly inclusive education.

Welcoming Elm, Our Community Dog

Adding to the sense of community within the school, our gorgeous Community Dog, Elm arrived in October 2025. Coming from Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, Elm is a highly trained working dog who has quickly established her place in Mercy College and indeed in the hearts of both staff and students. Providing comfort, encouragement, and companionship, this initiative has supported student wellbeing and contributed to a warm, inclusive atmosphere.

Our Growing School: 2026 and Beyond

Our school community has experienced significant growth, with enrolment numbers now exceeding 700 pupils.

This sustained increase reflects the confidence families place in our school and the strong reputation it has built for academic achievement, pastoral care and inclusivity.

In recognition of this growth, an additional Deputy Principal, Mr. Fintan Whelan, joined Mercy College in September 2026. The additional leadership capacity will bring further positive change to school life, enhancing collaboration, supporting teaching and learning, and helping to nurture the welcoming and vibrant environment that defines our school community.

Mercy College’s developments over the last 50 years reflect our school’s commitment to innovation, wellbeing and community spirit—ensuring a dynamic and enriching environment for all.

And we are still writing our story!