Family of St Conleth's College founder attend Cloughjordan talk

On Clyde Road in Ballsbridge, Dublin, stands St Conleth’s College, founded by a native of Cloughjordan, Bernard Sheppard.

Liam Doran recently presented a comprehensive account of Bernard Sheppard and the development of this private school, which was opened on September 3rd 1939, the day prior to the declaration of World War II.

Bernard enjoyed his involvement in guiding the students in a broad cultural education and is remembered for his free, open and encouraging attitude. At that time the school was described as “an establishment for the sons of Catholic gentlemen”. The school crest displays the word ‘Fide et Fortitudine’ (Faith and Fortitude), testament to the strong Catholic ethos. However, today students of all denominations or none are welcome.

In 1951 Bernard married Patricia King, from Seattle, USA. They met in Dublin when she was on an overseas posting to work in the Diplomatic Corps. After the untimely death of Bernard, six years later, Patricia was determined to continue the work in developing the school.

The school has prospered and expanded. Now in its 80th year the combined Senior and Junior schools have over 400 pupils on roll. Bernard and Patricia’s  daughter, Anne, became principal in 1988 and still maintains the family connection with St Conleth’s, presently as Chief Executive Officer.

It was an honour for the Cloughjordan Heritage Group to welcome members of the Sheppard family, Ms Anne Sheppard and students of the Leaving Cert Class with their history teacher to the Thomas MacDonagh Museum in Cloughjordan to attend the very informative talk, which was researched and delivered by Liam Doran.