History of the School

Navigate our timeline below to learn more about the history and development of St Ignatius Catholic School. 

1971
Founding
Franciscan Missionary Sisters start a school...

In 1971 the Franciscan Missionary sisters started a school with the aim of providing a Catholic education in a supportive and caring environment that welcomed all denominations

1972
Cayman Islands Population: 9,144. Students: 40
Move to Walkers Road

In 1972 the school moved premises to the present site on Walkers Road

1994
Cayman Islands Population: 31,672. Students: 384
Secondary School opens, Loyola Hall dedicated & New Crest

In 1994 St. Ignatius Secondary School opens adding 104 new students. Loyola Hall is dedicated and the school has a new crest which is designed by Monsignor John Meaney

1997
Year 11: First Graduations

1997 marked a historic milestone for St. Ignatius Catholic School, as we celebrated our inaugural Year 11 graduation, a proud testament to our commitment to academic excellence and student achievement.

1999
Year 13: First Graduations

In 1999, St. Ignatius Catholic School proudly witnessed its first Year 13 graduation.

2003
Cayman Islands Population: 44,354. Students: 498
Continued Expansion

In 2003 the school was expanded with the addition of a new Music and administration block through the generosity of Mrs Susan Olde and family

2004
Hurricane Ivan

St Ignatius became the first school on island to re-open having been closed for one-month for essential repairs.

2011
Cayman Islands Population: 56,580. Students: 594
Expansion Again!

2011 - the school expanded again with the addition of a dedicated sixth form area, giving students more space for studying as well as allowing the school to continue expanding the number of students who could attend.

2019
Cayman Islands Population: 62,346. Students: 665
New Sports Hall Planned

The school begins planning and fund raising for a new dedicated sports hall.

2023
Cayman Islands Population: 69,885. Students: 704
New Multipurpose Hall Completed

Construction of the multipurpose hall is complete thanks to the generosity of the wider school community

2024
Cayman Islands Population: 81,546. Students: 725
Dedication of the Monsignor John A Meaney Multipurpose Hall

The Most Reverend Arturo Cepeda Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Detroit officially opens the Monsignor John A. Meaney Multipurpose Hall

2024
The Cayman Islands Office of Education Standards (OES) has officially rated St. Ignatius Catholic School as Excellent following their November inspection!
St. Ignatius Catholic School Judged ‘Excellent’!
OES Inspection - Nov 2024

This incredible achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire school community – staff, students, parents, governors, parishioners, and stakeholders alike.

2024
ALPS placed St. Ignatius in the top 1% of schools worldwide for exceptional student progress.
ALPS Top 1% Diamond Award
ALPs 1% - 2024 - Valuing every student

St. Ignatius was recognised by ALPS (Advanced Level Performance System) as being in the top 1% of schools globally for exceptional progress at A-Level. This milestone highlights the outstanding academic growth and dedication of our students and staff, marking a historic achievement in the school’s academic record.