Coffey House

Br Coffey was the first Principal at St Patrick's College. He was Principal from 1952 to 1957. Conditions were difficult for Br Coffey and the other Brothers in the early years. The classrooms were overcrowded and there was not enough staff to go around. Staff worked tirelessly and as a sign of his appreciation Brother Coffey erected a statue of St Joseph.

Br Coffey was keen to continue the traditions of Brothers’ schools. School sport became one of the early traditions at St Patrick’s.  He also fostered cultural activities.  Even in the first year of the school (1952) the boys presented three items in the St Patrick’s Night concert.

Br Coffey was a tireless worker.  As well as being Principal of the College and  Superior of the Brothers Community he also took on the responsibility of the care of the front of Morven.

Br  Coffey, during his time at St Patrick’s, displayed inspirational leadership and made St Patrick’s a wonderful centre of Christian Life and Learning.  His students and parents held him in high regard.  The boys thought he was a very fair man, not afraid to treat them as they deserved, but he would always talk to the lad first before he punished them.  At the end of 1957 Brother Coffey was transferred to St Columban’s where he unfortunately suffered a severe heart attack. Thankfully Brother Coffey recovered and returned to St Patrick’s as a member of staff in 1964 and worked through to 1967.