It is the highest inter-schools hurling competition in the province of Leinster, and has been contested every year, except on two occasions, since 1918.

The final, usually held in February, serves as the culmination of a round robin and knockout series of games played between November and January.

The winners and runners-up of the Leinster final, like their counterparts in the Conancht Championships and Munster, advance to the All-Ireland quarter-finals or semi-finals.

St Kieran's College are the current champions, having beaten Kilkenny CBS in the 2024 final.

[4] No competition took place in 1919, however, following its resumption Offaly-based Cistercian College, Roscrea won four titles in five years from 1920 to 1924.

[11] Their great run of success was brought to an end by Good Counsel College, Wexford, who won two titles in 1995 and 1997.

In accordance with GAA rules, the Connacht Council awards a set of gold medals to the championship winners.