Established in 1856 CBC Monkstown has a rich history. It began its journey in Dun Laoghaire at Eblana Avenue. This was a time of hardship following the Great Famine. Many families were forced to emigrate. The school initially educated poor boys providing them with basic literacy. Brother Alphonsus Hoope was the school’s first superior. He secured two rooms for teaching expanding to three within weeks due to high demand.
CBC Monkstown’s early years were characterized by a strong sense of community. Local businessman Charles Kennedy and the Vincent de Paul Society helped raise funds. They organized a gala dinner at what is now the Royal Marine Hotel. Voluntary subscriptions also contributed significantly to the school’s financial stability. The Brothers residence was behind the school. Six Brothers lived there in a building separate from the main school.
The impact of World War I reached CBC Monkstown. Many former pupils fought in the war. The Dun Laoghaire area suffered significant losses. A statue was sent from Flanders to honor the dead. However the school declined the offer at the time. The statue was placed in the Dominican Covent.
Over time CBC Monkstown’s aims broadened. By the 1920s the school was preparing boys for state examinations. Increasing numbers went on to third-level education. Population growth in Dun Laoghaire fueled demand for the school. This led to the acquisition of Monkstown Park in 1949. The secondary department moved there in 1950. The primary school remained at Eblana Avenue. A private junior school opened at the Monkstown site. Eblana Avenue later resumed taking secondary students in 1954.
Unlike most Christian Brothers schools CBC Monkstown chose a different path. It played rugby union instead of Gaelic games. Along with its sister school CBC Cork it remained a fee-paying institution even after the Free Education Act of 1967.
The move to Monkstown Park was significant. The 22-acre estate previously housed the Protestant Corrig School. The acquisition required releasing land at Rochestown Avenue. This land had been used as playing pitches. Many locals had hoped it would become a public park.
CBC Monkstown continued to thrive. It added a new administration building in 1987. This included offices a cafeteria staff room and technology department. The Edmund Rice Oratory opened in 1994. The school celebrated its 50th anniversary at Monkstown Park in 2000. A new school building was completed in 2014. It added classrooms science labs and an art room.
Today CBC Monkstown stands as a testament to its enduring legacy. It’s a successful school with a strong academic record. The school’s motto Certa Bonum Certamen or “fight the good fight” continues to inspire. It reflects the determination and spirit that have shaped CBC Monkstown for over 165 years.