Royal Schools

The Royal Schools were ‘free schools’ created by James I in 1608 to provide an education to the sons of local merchants and farmers during the plantation of Ulster. The original intention had been to have a “Royal School” in each of Ireland’s counties – James I Order in Council read, “that there shall be one Free School at least appointed in every County, for the education of youth in learning and religion.”, but only five were actually established.

1737 – Royal & Prior School, Raphoe, Co. Donegal

In 1608, King Charles I granted a charter which founded the Royal Schools across Ulster.

1778 – Portora Royal School, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh

Architect: William Farrell / John McCurdy

The Royal Schools were ‘free schools’

1819 – Royal School, Cavan, Co. Cavan

Architect: Francis Johnston (1760-1829)

The Royal School Cavan was one of a number of ‘free schools’

Royal Schools

1737 – Royal & Prior School, Raphoe, Co. Donegal

1778 – Portora Royal School, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh

1819 – Royal School, Cavan, Co. Cavan

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