STUDENTS at Coláiste Eoghain, formerly known as Coláiste Chineál Eoghain, kicked off the new school year with a fresh look.
The Inishowen school, the only Irish language medium post-primary in the area, has officially rebranded with a new name, crest, and uniform following months of planning and consultation with the school community.
Principal Claire Ní Dhochartaigh, who took on the role last August, described the rebranding as an opportunity for the school to reflect on its values and educational mission.
“Rebranding gave us a starting point to begin this work and today, after much discussion, we have a new school name, school crest, and uniform,” she said.
The name change from ‘Coláiste Chineál Eoghain’ to ‘Coláiste Eoghain’ was aimed at simplifying the school’s identity.
Ms Ní Dhochartaigh explained that the old name, rooted in an older style of Irish, often caused confusion.
“Coláiste Eoghain means the College of Eoghain; simple and lyrical,” she added.
The new crest, developed with input from both staff and students, symbolises the school’s picturesque location on the Inishowen Peninsula, featuring a sailing boat on the lough, surrounded by hills, sky, and sun.
Ms Ní Dhochartaigh noted that the rebranding is more than just a cosmetic change, stating: “This rebranding is not just a change of logo or colours, but a strategy to ensure the school’s image and identity align with the dynamic and forward-thinking education it provides, underpinned by our five core values of excellence, care, equality, community and respect.”
Deputy Principal Dáire Ó Néill, who joined the team in May, and the rest of the school community are eagerly anticipating the move to a new school building in the coming years.
While Dr. Martin Gormley, Donegal ETB’s Director of Schools, praised the changes, stating: “This new name, crest, and uniform symbolises and prepares for a fresh chapter in the school’s history.”
For those interested in enrolling, Coláiste Eoghain can be contacted via email at colaisteeoghain@donegaletb.ie or by calling (074) 93 22350.
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere