Coláiste Chiaráin aspires to be about much more than just learning Irish, although there is of course a significant emphasis on engaging and dynamic classes six mornings a week, tailored towards the Junior and Leaving Certificate cycles, and preparatory work for the oral examinations. The muinteoiri and cuntoiri are also very conscious that a three-week stay in the Connemara Gaeltacht is a character forming experience and they try to help the children embrace that opportunity.
Good weather means students can visit one of Carraroe's many stunning beaches, go for walks and cycles, play sport outside including soccer, basketball, and Gaelic football, or enjoy water sports.
Sport is an integral part of the Coláiste Chiaráin experience.
The natural resource of Loch an Mhuilinn plays host to kayaking, which is always a favourite with the students.
During the course, well known GAA personalities facilitate the college with their coaching experience and spend afternoons encouraging students to reach their potential in their particular discipline.
Coláiste Chiaráin looks favourably on any group of students who go not alone for the Irish experience but for the GAA coaching experience and would be willing to offer a reduction of the cost if a suitable number decided to attend.
For students sitting the Leaving Certificate in 2014 and onwards there will be a lot of emphasis on oral and aural skills as this constitutes 40 per cent of the total marks.
The success of Coláiste Chiaráin down through the years is partly due to the dynamic of those attending, and the tears on the final night of the course are a testament to a very positive experience.
For more information contact 091 595167 or 091 595186, email [email protected], or visit www.colaistechiarain.ie
