An Ghaeilge: Cumarsáid, Comhluadar agus Craic (INTO)

Teaching resources.
In the classroom.
An outdoor class.
The Irish National Teachers' Organisation (into.ie) »

A course directed at school teachers who wish to improve their spoken Irish, thus increasing their capability to teach the language, or teach through the medium of the language, at all stages of primary level. Gleann Cholm Cille, Co. Donegal—a spectacular Gaeltacht region with a rich cultural heritage—is the setting for this programme.

It is hoped to offer this course again in 2025, subject to Department of Education approval. Dates for the next course will be made available on this page in spring 2025.

The course is recognised for Extra Personal Vacation (EPV) for teachers and qualifying participants who complete the five days of training will be entitled to additional leave. Oideas Gael is proud to provide this programme on behalf of, and in cooperation with, the Irish National Teachers' Organisation (INTO). The course is made available at a special reduced rate for INTO members. Your INTO member number will be sought upon registering for the course.

The course will nourish teachers’ confidence in their own abilities as Irish speakers. Participants will be able to choose from classes suited to their current level of Irish, meaning that all will be able to enjoy and benefit from the course regardless of what level of fluency they already posses, or if they are usually quite nervous of speaking the language.

The course aims to:

  • Promote the use of Irish as a habitual language of communication among teachers.
  • Enhance participants’ listening and spoken language skills in particular.
  • Develop teachers’ understanding of their own pupils as language learners.
  • Foster language awareness and cultural awareness among the participants—particularly in relation to the Irish language and An Ghaeltacht.
  • Improve teachers’ understanding of School Self-Evaluation in the context of the Irish language curriculum.

It is essential to the course that participants enjoy learning Irish and that their interest and confidence in the language grows throughout the week. Cultural activities—including music, literature, drama, guided walks, etc.—will be integrated with the language classes and evening activities.