Offaly Language Academy

08/08/2026

From Guiyang to Birr, and straight onto the hurling pitch!

We are delighted to welcome our wonderful group of students from Guiyang, China, who have travelled all the way to Birr to experience Irish culture, improve their English and make memories along the way.

They have settled in brilliantly and, as it turns out, they are not just great students, they are also seriously impressive hurlers!

It has been fantastic to see them getting stuck into one of Ireland’s most unique sporting traditions.

They have also been enjoying the atmosphere and festivities of Birr Vintage Week&ArtsFestival , visiting the beautiful Birr Castle Demesne and experiencing the very best of what our town has to offer.

We are so happy to have them here in Birr and look forward to sharing more of their Irish adventure over the coming days.

22/07/2026

Three weeks, so many memories, and a whole lot of English learned along the way!

Our students have spent the past three weeks fully immersed in Irish culture, from experiencing local traditions and activities to exploring Ireland and getting to know life in our community.

They’ve worked hard, stepped outside their comfort zones, made new friends, improved their English and experienced a little taste of what it’s like to call Ireland home.

We are so proud of everything they have achieved and it was wonderful to see them receive their completion certificates.

Congratulations to you all. We hope you go home with fantastic memories, new friendships and a little bit of Ireland in your hearts.

Thank you for choosing Offaly Language Academy. It has been a pleasure having you with us!

17/07/2026

There are so many reasons to visit our beautiful town and lear English with us. Can you think of any more? 🇮🇪

08/07/2026

An unexpected dance break on our trip to Dublin 🇮🇪 💃

06/07/2026

Our wonderful students learning traditional Irish recipes.
What's your favourite Irish food?

16/06/2026

✨ What does a day at Offaly Language Academy look like? ✨

It starts with breakfast and a chat with your Irish host family, followed by engaging English classes with our amazing teachers.

Lunchtime means catching up with new friends from around the world before heading off for an afternoon packed with adventure! From hurling and Gaelic football to Irish dancing, traditional Irish cooking, or exploring Birr Castle Demesne, there's always something exciting to discover.

After dinner with your host family, the day ends with great conversations, new memories, and plenty of laughs.

Every day is a chance to improve your English, experience Irish culture, and make friendships that last a lifetime.

11/06/2026

08/05/2026

Why Classroom English Isn’t Enough 🇮🇪✈️

You can study grammar anywhere.

But real fluency happens when English becomes part of your daily life.

☕ Ordering coffee in English
🛍 Asking questions in shops
💬 Chatting with classmates after class
🎯 Using English without translating first

That’s when confidence starts to grow naturally.

That's why students choose Offaly Language Academy.

05/05/2026

We are looking for host families to host international students this July and August.
Students will attend school Monday- Friday 9am- 4pm and have a full day excursion Saturday. Sundays are free days with the host families. Students are aged 14- 17.
If you are interested, please call Una on 083 1244079.

29/04/2026

What Our Host Families Say 💬

“I’ve hosted students from Offaly Language Academy and there’s never been a problem from start to finish. Una and Nessa have everything organised from the time students land in Ireland until they depart. They are constantly in contact with host families and always available at the end of the phone. I look forward to working with them again this summer, they are a pleasure to work with.”
– Deirdre, Host

Join a trusted and supportive host family network 🤝