Headfort School has always been an idiosyncratic place. Beginning as an 'outpost of empire' at a time when that empire was locally destitute and internationally disintergrating, it served to prepare the sons of the landed classes for the 'great English public schools'. From the magnificent setting of the Headfort estate the School has always occupied an unusual place in the history of education in Ireland. Weaving its way around the Headfort family and its successors - and through the development of the country - the story of Headfort has traced a rapidly changing educational ethos. Reflecting a changing society whilst staunchly refusing to adopt any of its more illogical conclusions, Headfort managed to protect its individuality and excellence. From the portraits of the colourful characters on its staff to the first-hand accounts from its pupils throughout every era, set off by a chorus of extracts from the 'Headmaster's Newsletter', this is a living account of a lively institution.Told in the inimitable style of Lingard Goulding, whose voice sums up so well the School he served, this history brings to vivid life the pupils, teachers, grounds and stories of Headfort School.
