Kildalton Agricultural & Horticultural College
Kilkenny view map
About Us
Kildalton College is situated in the village of Piltown, Co Kilkenny in the picturesque Suir valley. It is located on the main Waterford to Limerick road, approximately eight kilometres from Carrick-on-Suir and 20 kilometres from Waterford city.
Kildalton is the largest agricultural college in the country. It is a leading provider of training in Equine Studies, Machinery, Agriculture and Horticulture.
Close links have been developed with the local Institute of Technology in Waterford (WIT) to make it a progressive learning facility in the South East. Over 500 students are currently registered on courses at Kildalton College.
Kildalton College offers a wide range of further education and higher level courses in agriculture, horticulture and equine studies. Our courses equip young people with the key skills and knowledge required across the land based sector.
Students attending Kildalton College get the opportunity to learn in a practical supportive environment. Our practical experience programme provides valuable work experience as part of your overall training. Work experience can be arranged in other countries if desired.
Why us?
Student Welfare
Student welfare is important to us. All staff play a role in ensuring student welfare is a priority. One way of doing this is through our mentoring system as well as support from the teams of staff who are designated contact people for first aid, bullying issues, substance use issues etc should they arise. Check out Kildaltons Policy documents for team members. All staff are willing to help where they can.
Sports
Kildalton participates in the All Ireland inter college’s football, hurling, and soccer tournaments. In the last five years Kildalton has won three all Ireland hurling titles, two fifteen-a-side football and two national soccer competitions.
Social Events
Many social events are arranged throughout the academic year. These include a Freshers Ball in September; and Halloween, Christmas and Spring Parties. For many the highlight of the year is the end of the year function when staff and students hit Kilkenny for dinner, the presentation of sports awards and a late night party.
Equine Students
Kildalton Equine Club holds a variety of competitions throughout the year such as show jumping leagues and county cup competitions. These are very enjoyable competitions which encourages the students enthusiasm whilst improving their riding skills.
Other Activities
Students are also encouraged to partake in other social activities to make their time in Kildalton a memorable as well as educational experience. In the past number of years students have raised several thousand for local charities through such events as sponsored charity hill walks. This money has been put to good use and helps to integrate students into the local community. Each year students travel abroad to see how the agricultural industry is changing in other EU countries. Such study trips have proven to be both informative and enjoyable.