Course Structure

The total duration is 8 months, including a 25-week course and a 2-month holiday period.

Daily General English lessons covers all of the English language skills – speaking, listening, reading and writing with an emphasis on speaking and listening.

The main focus of the General English courses is on communication skills in real life settings.

Our syllabus is task-based, with students carrying out tasks in class to provide you with the necessary skills to manage using the English language in real-life situations. 

We have stated objectives and weekly targeted learning outcomes which are achievable and measurable. Your teachers will monitor your progress throughout your course and you will receive regular feedback and advice.

Immigration Requirements

Final External Exam

Option 1: TIE Exam

• The TIE exam follows the 25-week General English course.
• There’s no specific prep course, but students must complete three tasks: a short project on a personal interest, read a book in English, and follow a news story.
  Minimum level: A1.

Option 2: IELTS Exam

• The IELTS exam follows a 19-week General English course and a 6-week IELTS preparation course (25 weeks total).
• It assesses your English proficiency for academic environments, including understanding academic language like charts and statistics.
• Minimum Level: A2 Pre-Intermediate for the 25-week course; B1+ for the 6-week standalone course.

Carefully choose your course and exam before starting, as changes cannot be made once the course begins.

Medical Insurance

The school can arrange MediCover insurance through Arachas, providing medical support during your 8-month stay in Ireland.

Learner Protection (PEL)

Learner Protection (PEL) is provided by Arachas and ensures that, in the event of a school closure, students can continue their studies at another accredited institution.

Work Opportunities

Enrolling in one of these programmes also grants non-EU students work permissions in Ireland, which is why they are commonly referred to as “Work and Study” programmes. This allows you put what you have learned in class into practice in real life work settings.

Working Permissions

While registered on a Work and Study Programme you will be permitted to work 40 hours per week during the months of June, July, August and September and from 15 December to 15 January inclusive. At all other times you can work up to 20 hours per week.

Job Opportunities

Many of our students take up part-time or casual work in the hospitality sector, such as roles in restaurants, cafes, or retail, during their 8-month study period.  Cork’s welcoming environment and bustling hospitality sector make it easier to find part-time work during your studies.

Job Application Support

We hold a monthly Jobs Club in the school which is focused for English language student needs, where we help students with CVs , cover letters and interview skills.