Principal’s Welcome
Welcome to Douglas Community School
As Principal of Douglas Community School, and as a parent of second-level students myself, I warmly welcome you to our website. I hope you find it informative as you consider the right school for your son. Choosing a post-primary school is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent — and it is one we take very seriously.
Douglas Community School is an all-boys Community School located on the south side of Cork city. We have been serving our local community since 1926, first as Coláiste Muire under the Presentation Brothers, and since 1974 as a state-managed Community School. That strong sense of tradition, combined with innovation and ambition, continues to define who we are today.
At the heart of Douglas Community School is a clear academic focus. We set high expectations for all our students — and support them fully in achieving their potential. Our teachers are passionate about their subjects and experienced in helping students succeed at all levels. Year after year, our students outperform national averages across a wide range of subjects, with many progressing to high-points courses and competitive third-level pathways including Medicine, Engineering, and Law.
In recent years, up to 97% of our Leaving Certificate students have gone on to third-level education. We are especially proud of the breadth of achievement across our student body — from those reaching 600+ points to those who overcome personal challenges to achieve their own academic goals. Each year some of our students achieve the maximum of 625 points.
Our curriculum is designed to reflect the interests and talents of our students. At Junior Cycle, students take a full suite of core subjects along with two options from a broad range that includes Art, Metalwork, Business Studies, and Technical Graphics. Wellbeing and Religious Education round out their education in these formative years.
At Senior Cycle, our students continue to benefit from exceptional subject choice. With Irish, English and Maths as core subjects, students choose four additional options from an outstanding list of 18 subjects, including Chemistry, Economics, Computer Science, Climate Action and Sustainable Development, LCPE, and more. Our curriculum reflects both the needs of today’s learners and the world they will step into.
Academic progress is closely monitored at every stage. Teachers provide detailed feedback, and students receive one-on-one guidance. We also place a strong emphasis on study skills, personal responsibility, and resilience. Our experienced Career Guidance team works individually with students to explore pathways that match their strengths and aspirations.
That said, education at DCS is never one-dimensional. We believe in the development of the whole person. We want our students to enjoy their time in school, to be curious, to find their voice, and to participate fully in the life of the school.
Student voice matters to us. We listen to our students and evolve with them — whether that means introducing iPads as a learning tool, adding subjects like Computer Science or Climate Action, or setting up new clubs such as rowing or volleyball. In 2025 our Senior Volleyball team won the All-Ireland Senior Cup — an incredible achievement for a school playing the sport for only two years.
Outside the classroom, students are encouraged to explore their interests through a vibrant extra-curricular programme. From sport to coding, music to debate, art to chess — these opportunities build confidence, friendships, and lifelong skills.
Douglas Community School is a warm and ambitious place. We are proud of our students and committed to their success. We aim to develop confident, articulate, and socially responsible young men who are ready for life after school — whatever path they choose to take.
As a parent, I understand the hopes and concerns you may have for your child’s education. I invite you to explore our website, to learn more about what we offer, and to see for yourself what makes DCS such a special and successful school community.
Mr. Pat Barry, Principal