
WELCOME to Secondary Old Conna
John Scottus school offers a vision of education which gives young people the self mastery, strength of character and compassion to contribute meaningfully to the world around them. Central to the ethos of the school is character development and quality learning through cultivating the values of stillness, attention, enquiry and unity.
It is an education based on the belief that each child can come to discover and express their innate gifts, that each child can come to contribute something unique and exceptional, that each child has at their heart a limitless potential


Why John Scottus Secondary?
We at John Scottus believe that the role of education is to empower the greatness within.
Our aim is to empower students to grow into adults of strength and good character, achieving at the academic level more than they think possible. We aim to develop curious, committed, caring and calm learners who have a big vision of what they can contribute to the world around them.
Our distinctive approach to education is characterised by personalised attention, an inclusive atmosphere and wholesome philosophical development of character. Regular opportunities for stillness and philosophical enquiry enable students to learn to be at ease with themselves, to appreciate the value of being fully present and to develop their ability to concentrate. Indeed, the motto of the school “Delight in the present” expresses the belief that when a student comes to know their true self it is possible to delight in the present every moment of every day.

Dr. Declan Kelly
Principal John Scottus Secondary School
We believe that the art of teaching involves motivating students to want to learn important things, seeing through the eyes of the student and promoting quality work as the route to happiness and fulfilment. In practice, this translates to active learning environments full of questioning, effective feedback and collaboration. Our teachers present their excellent knowledge of subjects with enthusiasm, believe all students can achieve and give their time generously to encourage the well-being and academic development of their students.
We welcome you to explore our website and to find out for yourself how our school is a caring community in which pupils have the opportunity to achieve academic excellence and to grow spiritually, emotionally, socially, intellectually and physically.
We look forward to welcoming you to John Scottus Secondary at one of our Open Days, a School in Action visit or when your child comes for an interview. Do please use the opportunities to speak to our students, parents and teachers who will be delighted to help and answer any of your questions.