Merlin College
Coláiste Mhuirlinne/ Merlin College began in August 2013 to serve the children of Doughiska, an area in east Galway City, which in 2002 had 200 residents but now has a population of nearly 9,000. This rapid development stemmed mainly from an influx of foreign nationals who came to Galway looking for work opportunities during the Celtic Tiger era.
Although the recession hit Galway in 2008 the population has remained somewhat settled as many families do not want to uproot their children from school and their friends etc. although there is a constant flow of people and families coming to and from, year on year, and the school at times can seem somewhat transient.
As there is such a diverse population in Doughiska, (The most diverse, multi- cultural place in Ireland according to recent studies by NUIG) it is no surprise that this is reflected in our school’s population, whereby, students come from all over the world. At our last European Languages Day, we discovered that 55 different languages were spoken or heard by the students when they went home and that 25% of students are in non- English speaking homes.
Merlin College has been a beacon of acceptance, creativity and academic excellence ever since we opened our doors. We currently boast a school population of over 700 students and 65 staff members. We have strived to showcase the wide variety of talents that our students have and work to nurture those talents so students can achieve to the best of their capabilities. Our multi-cultural background translates to success with many languages being examined in the Leaving Certificate and we have nurtured our own native language too with Merlin College achieving the Gaelbratach year in year out. Merlin College has become a school of innovation with a wide variety of subjects, sports teams, clubs and societies for students to engage with and grow in.
WAITING LIST
In September 2024, the school will have a population of 726 students.
Our yearly enrolment for 1st year students is 120. We currently have a waiting list for all year groups.
Prospective students and parents are advised to apply early when our enrolment process begins in early October as there will be no chance of a place if correct application procedures aren't followed or are not on time.