High School Ireland
English French German Spanish Russian Chinese

Academic High School Programme

General Information

An Academic Programme is the best way to absorb a new culture, learn a second language and complete a recognised Education programme.

It is accepted that Ireland has the best Educational system not only in Europe but also probably in the world.

Through the experience of attending school and interacting with friends over an academic year, the student will understand the Irish culture, the people and their country. They will benefit from learning in a global setting, gaining knowledge through the unique strength of academic institutions abroad.

As the Gateway to Europe, Ireland whose vibrant Celtic origin continues to regulate the pulse of the nation, offers a truly rewarding experience for the visiting student. Ireland’s friendly people and unique heritage of culture and literature provides the perfect place for your English language study.

Individual and personal attention is assured during the stay in Ireland as school sizes are small and foreign students often bring prestige to a school. They will be made very welcome during their stay in Ireland.

The programme includes participation in the full range of social and sporting activities organized by the school. Preliminary placement in classes is based on the most recent school reports. They may attend for a whole year or just one or two terms. However, interviews may also take place on arrival to further ensure placement in suitable classes.

« TOP »

 
The School System

The Irish secondary school system has a six-year course, with a state exam during the third year entitled “The Junior Certificate” and at the end of the sixth year, the “Leaving Certificate”.

Year four is a "Transition Year" where students try out various new subjects and programmes before choosing what to study for in their final 2-year programme.

Students must take a minimum of five subjects including the three core subjects of English, Irish and Mathematics. Students can then choose their other subjects from a broad range including arts, languages, science and other applied subjects (e.g. mechanical drawing, woodwork etc).

Students must take a minimum of five subjects including the three core subjects of English, Irish and Mathematics. Students can then choose their other subjects from a broad range including arts, languages, science and other applied subjects (e.g. mechanical drawing, woodwork etc).

Aprox. Age  
12 - 13 Junior Cycle Year 1
13 - 14 Junior Cycle Year 2
14 - 15 Junior Cycle Year 3 + Junior Certificate Examination
15 - 16 Senior Cycle Year 1 (Transition Year)
16 - 17 Senior Cycle Year 2
17 - 18 Senior Cycle Year 3 + Leaving Certificate Examination
Students who graduate from High School receive their Leaving Certificate

In Ireland, the school year is divided into 3 terms and is approximately 9 months long, from September to June.

Autumn September to December
Spring January to March/April
Summer March/April to June

A typical school day begins at 9 a.m. and ends around 4 p.m. There are 8 classes per day with one short break. All schools require uniforms and many schools were founded by religious orders, but welcome students of all faiths.

School Holidays
There are two annual school breaks, at Christmas and Easter, of approximately 2 weeks each. During the first and second term, there is also a mid-term break of one week in each case.

« TOP »

 
The Transition Year

Year four is a Transition year where students try out various new subjects and programmes before choosing what to study for in their final 2-year programme.
This year is an excellent introduction to the English speaking education system in Ireland. The Transition Year is not so strongly academically based, giving students the opportunity to improve their spoken English.
Subjects covered in this year may include:

  • First Aid
  • Car driving theory and practical lessons
  • Music
  • Drama
  • Public speaking and debating
  • Adventure camp
  • Adventure sports
  • Wood work
  • Metal work

This year also includes discussions and debates with a range of guest speakers, on political and topical issues. Many schools also incorporate 7 to 10 day European tours.

For further information on the Transition Year see the link below.

Transition Year Frequently Asked Questions

« TOP »

 
Application Requirements
  • Students aged 12-19 years old
  • 2 or more years of English language study with good grades
  • An above-average academic record
  • An interest in learning about another culture and language
  • A willingness to make new friends and to share the daily life of a host family / in the residence (if applicable)
  • An open and flexible attitude
  • Students should obtain medical and/or travel insurance in their own country prior to departure
  • For EU students Social Security Form E1-11
  • For Non-EU students full private medical insurance if they require a visa – see the section on Visa requirements

Dates: September to June

« TOP »

 
What's Included

Programme Includes:

  • School selection and placement
  • Full board (three meals per day) in single roomed residential accommodation / Placement in a carefully selected family
    with full board
  • School registration and school fee
  • Transfer to and from Shannon Airport
  • Up to 3 days orientation prior to start of programme
  • Supervision and counseling during the programme (guardianship)
  • School uniforms
  • School books
  • Transportation to and from school
  • School insurance
  • Laundry-service

Program does not include:

  • Stay during Christmas
  • Personal items and holiday travel, telephone use at host family, spending money
  • Transfer to and from Dublin, Cork and Kerry Airport
  • Extras incurred outside normal Guardianship hours

« TOP »