The Brigidine Sisters opened Brigidine College, a secondary college for girls, on its current site in St Ives, on 9 February 1954, with nine foundation pupils. The site on which the college was built had previously been an orchard and dairy, and was still surrounded by semi-rural properties. The Brigidine Sisters remained the administrators and teachers of the College until 1995.
The College Motto, Fortiter et Suaviter, often interpreted as "Strength and Gentleness", originates from the foundation of the Brigidine Congregation in Ireland by Bishop Daniel Delany in 1807.
The Convent – Administration area, including Reception and Student Services for all Year groups.
McCammon Wing – Year 11 and 12 classroom and recreation areas, Centre for Excellence, Independent Learning Centre, Senior Study Areas, Student Services
Gymnasium – Two classrooms; full sized court for netball, basketball, volleyball; change rooms
Bowie Hall – A 1,000 seat hall for assemblies, functions and performances
St Brigid's Chapel and Religious Education Centre – Religious Education and Learning Support classrooms and offices; Chapel seating 160 people.
Romuald Visual Arts Centre – A dedicated Visual Arts Centre with senior studio, three classrooms, sculpture courtyard and multi-media area.
McMahon Wing – classrooms and courtyard; Textile and Design areas
Murray Wing – Year 12 Commonroom and courtyard, IT Centre and "Fresh Taste Sensations" Canteen.
Synan Wing – Classrooms for Years 7–9, offices for Year Co-ordinators.
Anita Murray Centre – Performing Arts and Science facilities including 220 seat Theatre, Drama/Dance studio, music classrooms and practice rooms, band rehearsal room, seven new science laboratories and 7 classrooms.
Kinkead Library – Library resources; wide reading area; information laboratory; digital library for staff resources.
College Green – Recreation area for students
Quadrangle – Shaded recreation area
Governance
In 1999 the College was incorporated as a Company Limited by Guarantee and a board was appointed, with responsibility for governance and leading the College in pursuit of its mission. The board is appointed by the Trustees of the Sisters of the Brigidine Congregation. Parents are represented on the College Board, as are the Brigidine Sisters and other members of the Catholic educational community. The Principal of the College is appointed by the Board and is charged with the responsibility of administering the College.
Notable alumnae
Annette Andre – star of 1960s cult British series, Randall and Hopkirk
Bella Ferraro – X Factor 2012
Lisa Hensley – television and movie actress
Sarah Stephens – model
Alex Hope
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Joanna Oud – Model
Tash Palmer – discovered in 2017 Brigidine Talent Quest
