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Founded in 1880, Alpha's long history of service to those struggling to navigate society continues today for current and past students who receive services.
On May 1, 1880 Jessie Ripoll and her two companions began two Industrial Schools, one for girls and the other (Alpha Cottage) for boys. Initial registration comprised 12 boys. Alpha Cottage became Alpha Industrial School, then Alpha Boys’ School and now Alpha Institute. In 1890, Mother Winifred Furlong and other Mercy Sisters from England were asked by the Vicar Apostolic of Jamaica to join Jessie in her work. Make a donation to benefit Alpha here.
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Since 1890 Alpha has been run by the Religious Sisters of Mercy, a catholic order of nuns. Her works spread throughout Alpha’s 44 acre property over these 135 years to include, Alpha Institute, Alpha Boys’ School, Alpha Girls School, Convent of Mercy Academy, Alpha Infant School, Alpha Prep School, Alpha Primary School, Jessie Ripoll Primary School and Alpha Business College. Throughout its history has cared for and given education and trade training to thousands of needy youth.
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Of the vocations taught at Alpha, music has been the most prolific. Alpha boys have influenced the direction of jazz, ska, reggae and dancehall worldwide. The celebrated careers of jazzmen Jo Jo Harriot and Dizzy Reece, ska pioneers the Skatalites, roots reggae vocalist Leroy Smart and dancehall star Johnnie Osbourne, all began at Alpha. Sister Ignatius (1921-2003), Alpha’s longtime administrator, was instrumental in facilitating creative spaces to flourish and she is familiarly called the ‘Mother Theresa of Reggae Music’.
For Alpha Boys' School contact information, click here.