The first Grammar School directed by the De La Salle brothers opened in Irish Street, Downpatrick in 1934 with Br Alexis as Headmaster.

St Patrick's has been serving the needs of the wider area for almost seventy years now, and in this time it has built up a tradition of excellence and commitment to the people of the area. A large number of our students are either children of, or otherwise related to, past students of the school, and this instils a sense of loyalty on both sides.

It is held in high esteem in the locality, and strives to live up to this reputation. Many past students of St Patrick's occupy senior positions in civic and political life, industry, buisness, the prefessions, entertainment and the media, throughout the province and further afield. The school enjoys a fine sporting tradition and participates regularly in provincial sports competitions in soccer, basketball and Gaelic football. Many former students featured on successful County Down football teams.