Events

On Thursday, April 24th, we had the pleasure of welcoming the Japanese Ambassador, Junji Shimada, to Dublin City University (DCU). The Ambassador was introduced to DCU President Daire Keogh and our English Language students from Japan, many of whom are enrolled in the DCU International Academy’s Academic Year Programme to improve their English proficiency. The purpose of the visit was to explore opportunities for deepening academic partnerships and student exchange between Japan and Ireland, while also commemorating the upcoming World Expo 2025.

Japanese undergraduate students choose DCU’s International Academy for their English language studies, and the university is also home to a vibrant and long-standing Japanese Students’ Society.

Adding a touch of fun and colour to the day was MYAKU-MYAKU, the official mascot of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. This friendly and vibrant character created a memorable moment for our students and official representatives. Expo 2025 is an upcoming World Expo set to take place from April 13th to October 13th, 2025, on Yumeshima Island in Osaka. 

Centered around the theme ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives,’ the Expo aims to bring together nations to explore solutions for global challenges such as health, sustainability, and technology. Presented by 150 countries and 25 international organisations, the Expo will feature initiatives aimed at creating a future society for our lives.

 

DCU President Daire Keogh (left), Expo 2025 Mascot MYAKU-MYAKU (middle), and Japanese Ambassador Junji Shimada (right)

DCU International Academy has strong partnerships with several universities in Japan, offering students Study Abroad and English Language programmes that foster cross-cultural exchange. Learn more about our overseas language courses and pathway programmes.

To discover more about Expo 2025 and the vision behind MYAKU-MYAKU’s character, visit: https://www.expo2025.or.jp/en/overview/character/

 

 

Sources:

Expo 2025 Osaka Official Website

Dublin City University News

 

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Dublin is a wonderful city to explore during the holiday season, offering a festive combination of lights, markets, and winter activities. There’s no shortage of events to experience in the capital to get into the Christmas spirit. 

 

Here’s our top 10 list of best Christmas experiences in Dublin:

 

1. Christmas Markets at Dublin Castle
Dublin’s annual Christmas market takes place in the heart of the city at Dublin Castle. At Dublin Castle, you’ll find a stunning medieval backdrop for the market, where you can browse handmade crafts, delicious treats, unique gifts and enjoy live entertainment. It is the perfect place for a festive day out with friends or family.

 

2. Dublin Castle Christmas Tree
Each year, Dublin Castle sets up a giant Christmas tree in the heart of the city. The tree is beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and ornaments, and it is an ideal spot for capturing photos. The setting around the castle, combined with the festive atmosphere, makes it a perfect place to stop by and soak in the holiday spirit.

 

 

3. Lights on Grafton Street
Grafton Street, Dublin’s famous shopping street, transforms into a sea of lights every Christmas with its illuminating decorations. Take a stroll down this popular street, lined with Christmas lights and window displays. Brown Thomas, notably, is known for its extravagant holiday window displays. Enjoy the festive atmosphere as you shop for presents or stop for a hot chocolate at one of the many cafés, such as Bewley’s Café. 

 

 

4. A Christmas Panto
For some lively entertainment, Dublin offers a great selection to delight all panto enthusiasts. The Gaiety Theatre is bringing the festive season to life with Peter Pan, while the Olympia Theatre is showcasing Freezin’, a fun spin on the beloved Frozen adaptation. Meanwhile, The Helix will put its own twist on Rapunzel.

 

 

5. Grab a Hot Chocolate or Mulled Wine
While you’re browsing through the Christmas markets why not take a sip of the warm, festive drink. In Dublin, you can find plenty of places serving up delicious hot chocolate, mulled wine, or spiced cider. Whether you’re enjoying a drink in one of the city’s cosy cafés or wandering through the Christmas markets, there’s nothing better than warming up with a festive beverage as you take in the sights and sounds of Dublin at Christmas.

 

 

6. Christmas Movies at the Lighthouse Cinema
For a more relaxed activity, why not catch a Christmas movie at the Lighthouse Cinema in Smithfield? This independent cinema offers a unique, cosy setting to watch all your favourite festive films, from timeless classics such as Home Alone, Elf, It’s a Wonderful Life, The Grinch and many more.

 

 

7. Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo and Wonder Lights at Malahide Castle
If you love a good light display, be sure to catch Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo or Wonder Lights at Malahide Castle & Gardens. These outdoor events feature large-scale light installations that transform these iconic locations into an atmospheric and magical winter wonderland. You’ll be stunned by the presentation of light sculptures as you wander through the outdoor exhibit. These events are sure to create lasting memories for families, friends and couples alike.

 

 

8. Hole in the Wall Pub
For a cosy escape from the cold, head to the Hole in the Wall pub, nestled right beside the Phoenix park. This 18th-century pub offers a traditional Irish pub experience with a Christmas theme (all year round), complete with warm fires, hearty food, and a wide selection of drinks. Whether you’re looking to warm up with a pint of Guinness or enjoy a Christmas dinner, the Hole in the Wall is the ideal spot for a wintery afternoon. Explore other great cosy pubs in Dublin.

 

 

9. Ice Skating at Blanchardstown, Smithfield and Dún Laoghaire
For some active fun, lace up your skates and glide across the ice at one of Dublin’s temporary ice rinks. Popular locations such as Blanchardstown, Smithfield and Dún Laoghaire which offer ice skating experiences for all ages and skill levels. It is a fantastic way to embrace the winter season.

 

 

10. New Year’s Festival
Dublin’s New Year’s Festival takes place across two stages in Dublin’s city centre. There will be live performances, street entertainment alongside food stalls to keep the crowds entertained. A selection of Irish artists will take the centre stage for the Countdown Concert Matinee at Dublin Castle. To top off the night, spectacular fireworks will light up the skies over Dún Laoghaire and Howth Harbour, creating the perfect atmosphere to ring in the new year ahead.

 

 

Looking for even more festive fun in Dublin? Explore more at Visit Dublin to discover a wide range of events and activities that will make this holiday season unforgettable.

 

From all of us at DCU International Academy, we wish you a joyful holiday season and prosperous New Year!

 

Don’t forget to capture photos of your experiences in Dublin this Christmas! 

 

Follow us and tag your festive moments: @dcu.internationalacademy

 

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The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognised assessment of English proficiency, covering listening, reading, writing, and speaking. DCU IELTS supports professional development, migration, and educational opportunities, helping individuals advance their careers or explore new paths in English-speaking environments.  

One of these ambitious individuals is Svitlana, or “Lana” for short. A 28 year old Ukrainian professional who has made Ireland her home for the past two and a half years. Lana’s journey is one of determination and academic growth. Recognising the need to improve her English in order to enrol for higher education, she sought the best resource to help achieve this goal. Today, Lana has excelled in her IELTS exam and is pursuing her master’s degree at DCU Business School.

From the beginning, Lana was determined to gain admission to Dublin City University (DCU). “I say to myself, I cannot compete without Irish education,” she reflects.

Lana reached out to the DCU registry to understand what she needs to achieve for enrol as a master student at DCU and as an international student. To her surprise, she found a welcoming community eager to assist. “Irish people will try, even if they cannot help you, they will try to find someone who can,” she notes, emphasising the warmth she encountered. “I love DCU,” she says, highlighting the supportive environment that played a significant role in her choice.

To qualify for entry, Lana needed to complete the IELTS exam, a requirement that assesses her reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills in one sitting. To prepare, she enrolled in the three-week course at DCU International Academy. Starting at a B2 English level, she found the journey both challenging and rewarding.

Lana speaks highly of her teacher, Alan, who utilised practical examples to help students grasp complex concepts. With over 20 years of experience preparing for their IELTS exam, she highlights the ‘personal factor’ he brought to the learning experience.

“The academic guidance, for me, it was amazing” and now – I’m already a student of DCU for a month and a half.”

For anyone considering a similar path, Lana offers a piece of advice: “Lose your shame.” She believes embracing vulnerability and seeking help is essential in the learning process. The supportive atmosphere at DCU, combined with academic guidance, has made her transition to student life a positive experience.

Now, as she embarks on her academic journey at DCU Business School, Lana reflects on how important the IELTS exam is for her progression. “You need to know how to explain and describe, for example, technical graphs – you need to read very serious articles.”

She also noted the sense of stability in Ireland. “The first time in my life when I don’t have any thoughts of moving somewhere else. Maybe not for a while. Maybe for 1, 2 or 5 years more. But I’m happy here.”

We extend our sincere thanks to Svitlana for sharing her experience with us. We wish her all the best in her masters programme at DCU Business School.

DCU International Academy (DCUIA) provides comprehensive IELTS preparation courses, expert guidance, and official resources. The DCUIA IELTS test centre, located on the Glasnevin campus, offers easy access and flexible scheduling options.

Visit our website to learn more about how to register of DCU IELTS: https://english.dcu.ie/courses/ielts/

 

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Meet Gualberto, originally from Venezuela, now living with his wife in Chile since 2016. Gualberto was determined to improve his English language ability. Working for an international company, Gualberto interacts with colleagues from countries around the world on a daily basis, making English essential for communicating with co-workers overseas. Today, Gualberto has completed 12 weeks of the General English course at DCU International Academy (DCUIA) and has advanced from an A2 to a B2 English level.

 

Initially anxious about travelling to Dublin, he is now reassured that, “Today, I can say – it is the best decision, I think I’ve made in my life.” Grateful for the support he has received, he praises the entire process, from accommodation to the quality of teaching. 

 

Gualberto has noticed significant improvements in his listening ability to understand different English accents—a skill that he emphasises is ‘small’ but crucial for effective communication in his work. “Now I can understand my co-workers more easily in India or China –  I can understand their accent.”

 

Gualberto’s experience in the General English programme at DCUIA has not only enhanced his language skills but also built his confidence in engaging with a diverse range of colleagues. As he continues to progress in his career, Gualberto serves as a clear example of how determination and the right support can lead to improved English proficiency. 

If you’re interested in improving your English skills like Gualberto, discover the General English courses we offer at: https://english.dcu.ie/courses/general-english/.

 

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Sebastian Monge Rios, a 22-year-old from Costa Rica, is on an exciting path toward fulfilling his dream of becoming a pilot. Sebastian’s passion for aviation took root in his childhood sparked by visits to the airport with his mother. 

 

Determined to pursue his dream, Sebastian made the decision to move to Europe two years ago to explore new opportunities in aviation. He chose Dublin City University  to pursue his education in Aviation Management, opting for the Business Stream of the International Foundation Year (IFY) programme to prepare himself for the challenges ahead.

The IFY programme at DCU is designed for students like Sebastian who need additional support before entering university. It offers course modules that develop academic skills, language proficiency, and subject-specific knowledge.
 

Reflecting on his experience, he described the IFY as “a good bridge” that helped him transition smoothly into his studies. The programme, became essential in building the academic and language proficiency required for the more technical subjects in his degree. “It was not the thing I wanted, but it was the thing I needed,” he shared, acknowledging the importance of preparation before diving into a more demanding course.

 

Despite some initial concerns about moving from a small city in Costa Rica to Dublin, Sebastian appreciates the support he received, particularly from his business teacher. The course materials, especially for business, were helpful in navigating the complexities of technical English. This preparation has boosted his confidence as he looks forward to joining the full undergraduate programme at DCU.

 

For students considering this route, Sebastian encourages them to view the IFY as an essential step toward achieving their academic and professional aspirations. “My general advice for everyone who is going to do the course is that in your mind, it seems better if you go straight down to the course. But believe me, even if you speak English fluently, you are going to struggle with something. So it’s better to struggle in safe place that prepares you your future challenges”

 

We sincerely thank Sebastian for sharing his experiences with us and look forward to following his journey as he takes the next steps toward achieving his aviation goals.

 

If you would like to know more about our International Foundation Year programme we are here to help, please get in touch.

 

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We caught up with Romain, a French native who recently completed a 3-week General English course with DCU International Academy. 

 

“I had a fantastic time during my 3-week General English Course in Ireland. We started with a small class of three or four students at an advanced level” 

 

“I had two lovely teachers, each with their unique teaching methods. My pronunciation improved, and I learned grammar rules.”

 

One of the highlights of his experience was being in Ireland and engaging in conversations with the locals. Romain highly recommended staying with a host family for several reasons: “They provide daily opportunities to speak English, and I even developed a liking for Barry’s black tea. so I’m glad I chose a homestay.”

 

Although the small class size required us to work closely together, it created a strong sense of teamwork. “Our teachers made learning fun by incorporating games and using videos to teach us about different speech pitches”

 

Exploring Dublin was a joy. “I liked walking the streets in Dublin , I would try to slow down to take in the moment”. Visiting the Guinness Storehouse and “chatting with a couple from England” was a memorable experience. I also enjoyed trips to Bray and Howth. He appreciated the social activities arranged by the DCU International Academy’s Services team, which included the Thursday chat club, which was fantastic for meeting new people and practising English. 

 

“I’m now looking forward to my second year, hoping to return to Dublin for my Erasmus programme.” 

 

A huge thank you to Romain for speaking with us about his experience studying at DCU. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours. 

 

If you’re interested in having a similar experience, learn more about our programmes here.

 

 

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Sebastião, a recent PhD candidate in Computer Engineering completed an intense one-month English course at DCU, which included two weeks of focused language study. During this time, he found the experience incredibly enriching. Sebastião, who is from Brazil, had the opportunity to connect with people from South Korea, Spain, and Italy which brought a unique perspective to the classes.

The course was structured so that students attended English classes in the morning and then participated in sessions at the DCU Business School in the afternoon. Notably, DCU Business School ranks among the top 1% of business schools worldwide.

 

Reflecting on his experience he said, “The experience was wonderful—because I am a computer engineer, my English is very technical, but this course helped me expand my language skills in new ways.”

 

Coming from a small city in Brazil, Sebastião enjoyed his experiences with peers and was surprised by the possibilities and opportunities he discovered at DCU. He spent time interacting with a Spanish student and appreciated the diversity of age groups in the class, believing it contributed to a well-rounded learning experience.

 

“Dublin is very beautiful. In my city, it’s all buildings and buildings, but Dublin has nature, architecture, and history—it’s wonderful”

 

This was Sebastião’s first time flying away from home, and he was impressed by the large, “cosmopolitan” campus at DCU. The experience of meeting colleagues and peers from different countries added to the rich, diverse environment. 

 

Sebastião concluded with,  “I would definitely enrol again if given the chance.”

Discover our range of English courses : https://english.dcu.ie/courses/general-english/ 

 

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Meet Nouara, a dedicated teacher from France with Algerian roots, who recently shared her experiences from the teacher training programme at DCU International Academy. Starting her teaching journey at 40, Nouara has since gained a wealth of knowledge and expertise  that she brings to her teaching.

 

Nouara teaches vocational students in France, helping them prepare for the workforce and boosting their academic confidence. This unique way of teaching made her time collaborating with fellow teachers at DCU especially meaningful.

 

Reflecting on the programme, Nouara found herself  in a collaborative and supportive environment. “The teachers here are exceptional, – they are not only knowledgeable but also engaging and approachable. The programme provided invaluable tips and strategies that I plan to incorporate into my teaching practice.”

 

One of the highlights of Nouara’s experience was the appreciation of the practical tips shared by her peers and the DCU teachers, which boosted her confidence in teaching English and integrating non-linguistic disciplines such as mathematics and history. The approach of combining language instruction with professional subjects, was a particularly rewarding aspect of the work.

 

Nouara also found the sessions on Irish history fascinating. “I learned so much about Irish history, which I plan to share with my students,” she said. This knowledge not only deepened her own understanding but also inspired her to broaden her students’ perspectives on global events and histories.

 

Nouara’s experience was marked by memorable moments, she fondly recalled the warm hospitality of her host family and the kindness of Dubliners.

 

 “The Irish people are incredibly friendly and helpful,” –  “Whether it was a casual conversation or a more meaningful interaction, I felt welcomed and supported.”

 

As Nouara prepares to return to France, she is eager to implement what she’s learned. She plans to create a timeline of Irish history for her students. She is also enthusiastic about returning to DCU in the future, with hopes to bring her students along for a unique learning experience.

 

For educators considering similar programmes, Nouara has some valuable advice: 

“Prepare by researching the local context and history. Understanding the cultural and educational background of the host country will enhance your experience and help you make the most of the programme.”

 

For those looking to expand their teaching practices and engage in meaningful cultural exchange, DCU offers a gateway to new insights and professional growth. 

 

Discover more about Teacher Training programmes on our website.

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DCU International Academy (DCUIA) has become a resource for educators looking to expand their knowledge and enhance their teaching practices. Velichka, a high school English teacher who has lived in Paris for 25 years, recently shared her reflections on the 2-week teacher training programme. She emphasised how the programme offered an in-depth exploration of authentic Irish culture, extending learning beyond textbook knowledge to real-life experiences.

 

Velichka sought to answer her students’ questions about Irish culture with authentic, first-hand experiences. As she puts it, “Being here makes me legitimate as a teacher.”

 

 “They need something which is either connected to history, they need dates. They need knowledge. They need facts. They need something that they haven’t had before. And so, I think that my challenge will be to offer new information, precise and rich.” 

“Not just focused on the language itself, but things to transmit through the English language – you’ll discover Irish myths and fairy tales.” 

 

The teacher training course at DCU International Academy exceeded her high expectations. What stood out most about the programme was the professionalism and approachability of the teachers. They were natural, relatable and humorous making the learning environment both enjoyable and constructive. The mutual support among her teacher training colleagues added to the positive experience, creating a supportive and collaborative atmosphere.

 

For her, language is a vehicle for culture. She was thrilled to learn idioms, jokes, and the “Dublin” pronunciation through spontaneous conversations. This involvement provided a depth of understanding that textbooks could never achieve. She highlighted the importance of experiencing culture first-hand to teach it effectively, believing that “you cannot feel legitimate without seeing and feeling the place.”

 

“Language actually is a vehicle for culture, so it is not an artificial teaching of culture. We are here and culture surrounds us.“

 

Velichka offered advice to fellow teachers considering such programmes, she emphasises the invaluable experience of visiting the places you teach about. She believes that walking the streets, talking to locals, and feeling the culture first-hand are essential for passionate and effective teaching. Her experience highlights the significance of learning beyond screens and textbooks to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment for students.

 

 

“You have to see the place, you have to walk the streets, you have to talk to the people. There is so much about the country which is not written in the books, and it makes you passionate – It’s never artificial intelligence, never a screen, something flat and something which is objective.”

 

The insights and experiences Velichka gained at DCUIA will undoubtedly enrich her teaching, bringing Irish culture to life in her Parisian classroom. For her, teaching is about sharing experiences that ignite students’ curiosity and passion for learning.

 

A special thank you to Velichka for sharing her experience and insights with us. 

 

Our teacher training programmes are ideal for all educators, including teachers, lecturers, and professors currently teaching in English or transitioning to English-medium teaching.

Discover more about our Teacher Training programmes on our website.

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Meet María, a 23 year-old student from the vibrant city of Puebla, Mexico. María is pursuing a degree in Business with aspirations to build a career in International Business. This semester marks her first time abroad, and she has selected Dublin as her destination for both leisure and academic advancement. María has chosen to further her English language skills at Dublin City University (DCU).

 

Initially what stood out to María was Dublin’s natural landscape and the warm, friendly manner of its residents. María recalls that she found herself lost on two or three occasions while exploring the city, only to be met with kindness and assistance from the locals. One of Maria’s favourite aspects was learning about Dublin’s rich history and exploring its famous tourist attractions, with Dublin Castle being a particular highlight of hers.

 

María’s advice for prospective students is to embrace opportunities and make the most of their time abroad. While also respecting the diverse cultures of their peers.

 

“It’s necessary for students to have experience in other countries, in other cultures, to learn about that, and experience that. Like for me, it’s incredible and I am happy with it.“ 

 

 

Her favourite aspect of DCU is the campus’s green areas, parks, and serene places to relax, which provide a perfect environment for both study and leisure. 

 

María deeply appreciates the supportive teaching staff at DCUIA. She notes that the teachers are always happy to help, whether you’re learning from a mistake or seeking assistance, the teachers create a welcoming and encouraging learning atmosphere.

 

“I was learning about the culture and it is totally different from other countries, for example, the rules for having a formal conversation are totally different. With that, my teacher has helped me. “

 

María’s experience of Dublin is a reminder to not be afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone and to take opportunities that come your way. María’s experience at DCU is not only about academic growth; it’s also about embracing new cultures, making new friends, and exploring new places.

 

Thank you to María for sharing her experience with us, we at DCU International Academy wish her the best in her future endeavours.  

 

At DCU International Academy we have a dedicated team to support our international students with experiencing Dublin, Ireland. The extra curricular activities for our international students include day trips, guided tours and peer meetups to practise their English language amongst classmates.

 

Contact us today: https://english.dcu.ie/contact-us/

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Meet Anouk, a 21-year-old student from northern Mexico, currently focusing on improving her English proficiency at Dublin City University (DCU) in Dublin, Ireland. Anouk is studying Human Resources in Mexico and is fluent in Spanish and French. Her enthusiasm for languages and diverse cultures is evident, and she also has a keen interest in learning Japanese. Anouk’s current visit to Dublin allows her to immerse herself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere while pursuing her English language studies at DCU.

 

Anouk is studying Human Resources, with an ambition to pursue her career in ‘Safety for Employment’. Her career goal is to enhance workplace safety and ensure a secure environment for employees. Improving her English will help her in her future career to ensure workplace safety and communicate effectively in different languages.

 

Anouk believes that interacting with individuals from various backgrounds allows her to understand their needs better and help them effectively. She’s passionate about impacting people’s lives and developing positive behaviours in the workplace. 

“In the business area, it is really important to communicate with others in other languages. So that is why you always try to develop in something, and for example, me, in English is my practise now, so you know what to practise in your career.”

 

Dublin has been a delightful experience for Anouk. She never imagined she would find herself travelling from Mexico to this vibrant city, enjoying its rich culture and friendly atmosphere. One of her favourite experiences so far has been exploring Temple Bar, a traditional part of touring Dublin city. 

 

“Yes, I like it all. Actually, I never imagined to be here – but when I saw the opportunity, it was like, OK, I can do it. “

 

 

Anouk’s experience and journey at DCU is shaping her into a well-rounded professional ready to make a significant impact in the field of safety for employment. With her linguistic skills and cultural awareness, Anouk is set to contribute to creating safer and more inclusive workplaces worldwide.

 

A huge thank you to Anouk for speaking with us and sharing her experience and future goals. We at DCU International Academy wish Anouk the best of luck in her future endeavours.

 

DCU International Academy aims to ensure that every student learns in the most effective and efficient way possible. Above all, we want students to experience English beyond the classroom and carry it with them into their future careers. To learn more about our English courses, visit our course pages at: https://english.dcu.ie/adult-courses/

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At DCU International Academy, we recognise that the landscape of education is continuously evolving. That’s why our Teacher Training Programmes are designed to provide comprehensive and active learning experiences. We cover a wide range of essential modules, including Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL), English-Medium Instruction (EMI), advanced language skills training, academic writing and presentation skills. At DCU International Academy we ensure that educators are equipped with the tools and resources they need for effective teaching in English.

 

Recently, we had the pleasure of welcoming a group of French educators to DCU for our Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) programme. Over the course of two weeks, the group had the opportunity to visit various cultural and educational attractions. Including a guided walking tour of Dublin City Centre, a deep dive into Irish culture at Croke Park stadium and notably educational visits to Trinity Comprehensive School and DCU St. Patricks Campus; one of the country’s largest primary teacher training colleges.

 

 

The educational visits in particular provided a unique perspective into the daily operations of Irish schools providing the group with the chance to share and discuss their own educational practices.

 

CLIL educator, touring DCU St. Patricks Campus

 

We had the opportunity to speak with one of the French educators apart of the CLIL group, who expressed appreciation for the programme. She particularly valued the hands-on experiences and the opportunity to interact with Irish teachers and students. The collaborative sessions sparked thought-provoking discussions among the group, enabling a deeper understanding of the Irish education system and an appreciation for its diverse teaching methods.

 

Our Teacher Training Programmes are ideal for all educators, including teachers, lecturers, and professors currently teaching in English or transitioning to English-medium teaching.

 

Discover more about our Teacher Training programmes on our website.

 

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