Thursday, 01.01.1970
College Options
International students who come to Ireland to improve their English language skills have a choice of a wide range of different schools. There are now English language programmes held at institutions all around Ireland, which offer a variety of courses to suit different students’ requirements. Some students might prefer a very intensive programme in a large institution, while others might learn better at a more relaxed course in a smaller school.
It is a good idea to choose a school recognised by the Irish government. The Advisory Council for English Language Schools (ACELS) is the official body charged with maintaining standards at English language schools in Ireland. It inspects language schools to ensure that instruction and facilities meet the required standards.
Facilities
Irish language schools usually feature the latest in state-of-the-art learning facilities. Classrooms can feature advanced IT and audio-visual equipment to aid learning during interactive lessons. Most schools will have libraries of English language learning materials and texts which students can borrow freely to practice their English outside of class hours. There are often dedicated ‘listening’ rooms, which feature CDs and computer programmes to help students with their listening and pronunciation skills. Access to internet and email facilities is usually available for students at Irish English language schools. Schools also usually feature a common socialising or eating area, where students can have lunch and relax while practicing their English language skills with other students from around the world.
Staff
The quality of teaching staff is always important in an English language school. In order for a school to gain regulation by the Irish government, all teachers must fulfil two criteria – 1. They must have a third level degree and 2. They must have a recognised TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) qualification and have undertaken a number of teaching hours prior to qualification.
Many teachers at Irish language schools have a good deal of experience teaching international students. A TEFL qualification is increasingly seen as a good career move for graduates, and competition within the sector keeps teaching standards high.
Accommodation services
Irish language schools are required to help their international students to find suitable accommodation. Students can be placed with a local Irish family, who welcome the student into their home for the period of the course. Meals can be provided and students often make friends with children within the family and can easily integrate into local life.
Larger language schools often have dedicated student residences. Purpose-built apartments typically feature 4 or 5 single bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and a large communal kitchen/living room. They are usually situated close to the school or are linked by public transport. Other schools will assist students to organise a place to stay before they arrive in Ireland or as soon as possible after arrival. For instance, adult students or families can be helped to find rented accommodation in the vicinity.
Assistance for Students
Operators of English language schools in Ireland are aware that moving to a new country and that living in the environment of a new language and culture can pose difficulties to even the most organised and outgoing of students. All schools are willing to help students with individual problems and ensure that their stay in Ireland is an enjoyable as possible. Larger schools have in-house counsellors, while others will be able to refer students to outside professionals who can help students deal with any personal issues that may arise. Advice is usually available to students that are looking to move on to a third-level education course after they have completed their studies.
