About our online courses

For how long does each course last and what’s involved?

Normally, each course takes place over eight weeks with one class per week. This is the case for our online cultural courses (singing and nature) this term.

New arrangements are in place for our language courses during spring 2026: instead of weekly classes, we will host two day-long intensive courses on February 7th and February 21st. Morning and evening options are offered so the courses are accessible to people living in Ireland and around the world. We have taken this approach due to the fact there will be an unusually-high amount of in-person courses taking place at Oideas Gael this spring. We will most likely return to the weekly class format from autumn 2026 onwards.

All class and event times listed on our website are local to Ireland—please take this into account when viewing our course calendar if you live outside of Ireland.

And I can choose my own course?

Regular attendees at Oideas Gael are familiar with a system where learners are placed in a suitable class in consultation with one of our staff. For the purposes of the online classes, however, we are asking you choose your own class based on the descriptions available. That said, feel free to get in touch with us if you are unsure and would like our help!

Can I take a course more than once?

It is definitely worth considering. While certain important features of the language may appear more than once in each course, we introduce new learning material from season to season. This means you can deepen your knowledge and build your self-confidence at a particular level before progressing to the next challenge.

Usually, we recommend that those who complete three seasons at a particular level move to the next course. This depends on the individual but please note that the learning material may repeat after your third course at a particular level. The only exceptions to this is our Irish Language 1 course, where you always start with the fundamentals. In Irish Language 5, the highest level, new course material is introduced every time the course runs.

How do the classes work?

We use Zoom to host the classes. Don’t worry if you haven’t used Zoom before. It’s easy and we will be available to help you. You will receive more information before your course begins.

Is there an emphasis on a particular dialect of Irish?

We always advise that learners not be unnecessarily worried about questions of dialect, particularly in the earlier stages of learning. While some of our learning materials do emphasise the Ulster dialect we employ teachers from all regions and with many different dialects. As a learner, you will benefit from coming into contact with a dialect you are less familiar with. If you are interested in a particular dialect, your teacher can take that into account and will be able to help you.

Are the course materials provided? Do I need any books?

You do not require any specific book in advance of any of the current language courses. Course materials will be provided to you in PDF format; sound and video files may also be provided. That said, many people like to make use of a dictionary or one of the many learning resources available at siopagaeilge.ie.

What happens if I need to cancel a booking?

In the event you need to cancel your booking your course fee will be refunded provided you contact us in writing (e.g. via e-mail) no later than five days before the course start date.

I have more questions! What do I do?

No problem! Feel free to get in touch with us any time.