Ballyvourney De Salle College
In 1960 the Ballyvourney school was purchased by the De La Salle order, a Catholic religious teaching congregation also known as the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools.
The main entrance, also I think there were two willow trees, all very uniform. Only it annoys my OCD now with it missing.
In 1998 the college closed and was purchased for over €500,000 by Údarás na Gaeltachta, a regional state agency responsible for the economic, social, and cultural development of Irish-speaking regions of Ireland. However, plans to develop it into a cultural center stalled with the Irish economy in the early 21st Century. Private investment of €3.2m to redevelop the campus into a live-in education center for international workers looking for vocational qualifications fell through amidst recriminations and allegations of stifling bureaucracy.
In the back of Ballyvourney, in this yard in the movie, there was a half wall that kept the young and older boys apart. It was demolished in the movie.
Handball Court 1 of 4. This one being used for filming of ‘Song for a raggy boy’
Song for a Raggy Boy - 2003 is an Irish historical drama film directed by Aisling Walsh. It is based on the book of the same name by Patrick Galvin starring Aidan Quinn and was filmed in the building and grounds of the College.
This was probably the prep room where all the actors changed for their part in ‘Song for a raggy boy’
The master plan explored the building's use for art purposes, as a visitor center showcasing the Múscraí Gaeltacht's cultural heritage, and as an Irish language education facility.
I've seen online that they have started works on the college for reuse as they have demolished a section at the back to install a lift and also entrance improvements. They are hoping to refurbish the remaining sections of the building in stages over the next 5-10 years.
One of the many dorm rooms which where probably used by the teachers
Some of the props from the film were still there when I visited which I found interesting as there was very little other evidence from the days of the college.
Back wall was part of the movie set, this is a science classroom but made to look like woodwork.
This was painted for the movie, were most of the classroom scenes were shot.
I'd also spend a night here, and managed some sleep as we were traveling around Ireland. All quiet no bumps in the night.
Can’t Beat A Roll Top 12x12 Print
These are from a 2009 and 2014 visit.
