EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITES

Explore the opportunities that take learning beyond the classroom and help every Malachian thrive.

St Malachy's College Year 8 Basketball Team retaining Vince Halloran Cup 2026
St Malachy's College Jazz Band in the College Hall

At St Malachy's College, education extends far beyond the classroom. Alongside academic excellence, we encourage every pupil to discover new interests, develop their talents and contribute positively to College life.

Whether through sport, music, leadership, faith, community service, clubs or enrichment programmes, our pupils are encouraged to take part in experiences that build confidence, develop character and create lasting friendships.

This commitment to providing a broad range of learning experiences reflects our belief in educating the whole person and preparing young men for life beyond school.

Chess Club in St Malachy's College
Duke of Edinburgh Students from St Malachy's College preparing dinner

Sport at St. Malachy’s

Teammates from St Malachy's College celebrating a win
High Jump event at St Malachy's College Sports Day in Antrim Forum
St Malachy's College dark green crest

Sport is an integral part of life at St Malachy's College. Our extensive and inclusive sporting programme encourages every pupil to get involved, develop new skills and enjoy representing the College. While we celebrate success at local, national and international level, we place equal importance on participation, commitment and personal development.

From Year 8 onwards, pupils have the opportunity to train, compete and develop across a wide range of sports, supported by experienced staff and excellent facilities. Through sport, our students build teamwork, resilience, leadership and confidence while embracing the values of respect, discipline and sportsmanship. The College also provides opportunities for sporting and cultural exchanges, further enriching the experiences of our pupils.

Gaelic Footballers from St. Malachy's College with their shield

Featured Sports

Athletics

There is a long and distinguished tradition of Athletics in the College, both in cross-country and in track & field. From Year 8 to Year 14, the boys train and compete regularly at District, Ulster and All Ireland level with a lot of success.

Basketball

One of Ireland's leading school basketball programmes, St Malachy's has celebrated numerous All-Ireland titles while providing opportunities for players of all abilities to train, compete and develop.

Football

With a long-standing tradition of success, College football teams compete across Belfast and Northern Ireland Schools competitions, with pupils training weekly on the College's all-weather pitch.

St Malachy's College Year 8 Basketballing Team
Hurling Team member from St Malachy's College

Gaelic Football

From Year 8 onwards, pupils have the opportunity to represent the College in the Antrim Schools' Cup and Ulster Schools Championship under the guidance of experienced coaches.

Golf

From the annual College Championship to inter-school competitions and international sporting exchanges, golfers enjoy opportunities to compete both locally and overseas.

Hurling

Open to every year group, the College's hurling programme has enjoyed significant success in recent years, with pupils competing across Ulster Schools and Antrim competitions.

St Malachy's College Senior Hurling Team

Rugby

Weekly coaching sessions provide pupils with opportunities to develop their skills and enjoy one of the College's growing sporting programmes.

Water Polo

A proud part of the College's sporting tradition, Water Polo continues to provide opportunities for pupils to compete while several players have progressed to international honours.

Track Runners from St Malachys College

Recent Sport Stories & Achievements

Music at St. Malachy’s

St Malachy's College choir ensemble performing in the College Hall
St Malachy's College student playing the organ
St Malachy's College crest in dark green

Music is an important part of College life at St Malachy's, providing pupils with opportunities to develop their musical talents, perform with confidence and become part of a vibrant musical community. Through a diverse programme of ensembles, choirs and instrumental tuition, pupils of all abilities are encouraged to participate, perform and represent the College throughout the year.

Performance lies at the heart of the Music Department, with pupils regularly taking part in concerts, liturgical celebrations, festivals and community events. Alongside developing musical excellence, students build confidence, teamwork and creativity while contributing to the rich cultural life of the College.

St Malachy's College Brass and Jazz Band performing in the College Hall

Recent Music Performances & Achievements

Featured Music Opportunities

The Music Department offers a wide range of opportunities for pupils to perform, collaborate and develop their musical abilities throughout their time at the College.

Highlights include:

  • Junior Choir

  • Senior Choir

  • Chamber Choir

  • Symphony Orchestra

  • Jazz Band

  • Senior & Junior String Orchestras

  • Senior & Junior Irish Traditional Groups

  • Brass Group

  • Chamber Ensembles

  • Rock Bands

  • Peripatetic Music Service (instrumental and vocal tuition)

The College also provides numerous opportunities for pupils to perform at concerts, liturgical celebrations, music festivals and community events, with many students progressing to regional and national ensembles.

Drama at St. Malachy’s

St Malachy's College crest in Dark Green

Drama at St Malachy's College provides pupils with the opportunity to develop confidence, creativity and communication through performance, collaboration and live theatre experiences. Whether performing on stage, taking part in workshops or attending professional productions, students are encouraged to explore their talents both inside and beyond the classroom.

Through a combination of practical experiences, industry links and extra-curricular opportunities, pupils develop valuable skills in teamwork, public speaking and creative expression while becoming part of a vibrant and supportive Drama community.

Featured Drama Opportunities

  • Junior Drama Club

  • Whole School Productions

  • Live Theatre Visits

  • Drama Workshops

  • Industry & Alumni Links

Students regularly attend performances at venues including the Lyric Theatre and the Grand Opera House, while also taking part in workshops delivered by professional theatre practitioners. Every two years, the College stages a whole-school production in collaboration with the Music Department, giving pupils the opportunity to perform and develop their skills on stage. Strong links with former pupils and the wider creative industry continue to inspire the next generation of performers.

Recent Drama Performances & Achievements

More Ways to Get Involved

Debating Students from St Malachy's College attending Debating at Queens University
Chess Club in St Malachy's College
St Malachy's College crest in dark green

College life extends well beyond sport, music and drama. Pupils are encouraged to explore new interests, develop existing talents and become actively involved in the wider life of the College through a variety of clubs, societies and enrichment opportunities.

Whether developing strategic thinking through Chess Club, exploring science beyond the classroom, taking part in debating, embracing leadership opportunities or participating in community and faith-based initiatives, every activity helps pupils build confidence, discover new strengths and form lasting friendships.

As College life continues to evolve, pupils are encouraged to get involved, try something new and make the most of every opportunity available throughout their journey at St Malachy's.

Duke of Edinburgh students from St Malachy's College preparing dinner

Opportunities include:

  • Chess Club

  • Science Club

  • Debating

  • Duke of Edinburgh's Award

  • Student Leadership

  • Peer Mentoring

  • Chaplaincy

  • Saint Vincent de Paul

  • Charity & Community Initiatives

  • Educational Visits

  • Workshops & Guest Speakers

  • Enrichment Activities

Recent Events & Achievements