Crana College in Buncrana is one of fifteen post-primary schools that we manage around the county and one of three in the Inishowen Peninsula. This year the school celebrated a century of education. This is a remarkable milestone for any institution, but for Crana College, it is a testament to resilience, growth, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Buncrana. In celebrating the school’s centenary this year, Principal Kevin Cooley reflects on its origins, its journey through history, and its exciting future in this blog.
The early 1920s were turbulent times in Ireland. Buncrana, like many other towns, found itself at the centre of the Irish Civil War. In 1922, the town was captured and recaptured by both Free State and Republican forces, shaping the local landscape in profound ways. However, amidst the conflict and rebuilding, the seeds of education were sown by one of the forerunners to Donegal ETB, what was then the Donegal County Council (Joint) Committee for Technical Instruction.
In 1925, Buncrana Technical School was established, marking the first opportunity for post-primary education in the town. Located on Upper Main Street, the school focused on agricultural and trade subjects, catering to the practical needs of a largely rural community. This was a time when education was not yet a given for all young people, but the foundation had been laid for what would become a lifelong educational tradition in Buncrana.
By 1940, the school had outgrown its original home. It relocated to a new premises on Shore Road, taking over what had once been a gentleman’s club or Masonic Hall, now the Further Education and Training (FET) Centre. This move signalled a period of growth. More subjects were introduced, the number of teachers increased, and the range of educational opportunities expanded.
For decades, the school remained a cornerstone of the community, adapting to the changing educational landscape of Ireland. By the 1980s, a new chapter began. The institution transitioned into Buncrana Vocational School and relocated to a purpose-built facility on Crana Road. With this move came the introduction of Junior and Leaving Certificate programmes, allowing students to continue their education to a higher level without having to leave their hometown.
The school continued to evolve, and today, it is known as Crana College, a school that offers a wide range of academic and
vocational opportunities for students. The landscape of education has changed dramatically over the years, and Crana College has embraced those changes, ensuring that students have access to the best possible learning environment.
As we celebrate 100 years of learning in Buncrana, the future looks brighter than ever. A new school building is on the horizon, a fitting way to mark this significant milestone. This new facility will provide a long-awaited modern, state-of-the-art environment for students and teachers, reinforcing the school’s commitment to excellence in education.
The story of Crana College is one of resilience, progress, and community spirit. From its humble beginnings as a small technical school in 1925 to the thriving institution it is today, the college has played a crucial role in shaping generations of students.
As we stand on the threshold of a new era, we celebrate the past while looking forward with excitement. Crana College is not just a school, it is a legacy, a community, and a promise that education in Buncrana will continue to thrive for generations to come. Here’s to the next 100 years!
