Scarlett O’Hara, Sales & Business Development Manager, Emerald Cultural Institute
Why would a student choose your school?
Emerald Cultural Institute has a reputation for delivering high quality programmes over many years but perhaps just as important in this new ‘covid’ world is the care and attention shown to each individual student. We have a dedicated student welfare officer who is there to support and help students in any way he can.
Our academic mentor system also means that any concerns students have with their course or any aspect of their programme can be discussed with a teacher who is familiar to that particular student.
Emerald also prides itself on the facilities we offer our students. Our beautiful headquarters at Palmerston Park comprises of two large buildings, home to 24 very spacious classrooms. The campus also has an abundance of outdoor gardens and opposite the idyllic Palmerston Park so students feel safe and secure in what is a perfect learning environment.
In your opinion, what are the main benefits for a student to study abroad?
In 2001, I had the opportunity to study abroad as part of the European Union’s Erasmus exchange programme and therefore I have first-hand experience of the benefits of studying abroad. First and foremost studying and learning a language in a country where the language is spoken is the best way to improve and perfect a language.
A cultural understanding of a particular country also helps in improving our language skills. I studied in Munich, Germany and while there, I worked part-time. This also helped me to develop a better understanding of the people and culture while at the same time earning some much-needed money as a student! I loved my time in Munich and while there met people who became friends for life.
How do you see the future of language tourism?
I see a very positive future for language tourism. The demand has never been greater whether for young students of 8 years of age, university students on a gap year, professional development language programmes or third age options. We hope that the coming months will see an easing of restrictions in many countries and we look forward to welcoming many students to both Ireland and the UK once again.
What types of courses do you think will be most in demand in the future?
Junior programmes with an element of difference such as the English & STEM programme which Emerald offers in collaboration with the Trinity Walton STEM programme.
Language programmes where students also have the opportunity to develop soft skills or 21st Century skills, which Emerald incorporated into all of our General English modules in 2019.
THE SCHOOL
Name of School
Country/City
Dublin/Ireland
What are the most significant things the school can offer?
Celebrating 35 years, the Emerald Cultural Institute continues to offer the highest quality English language and professional-development programmes. Students from more than 60 countries choose from our wide range of innovative programmes for junior and adults.
Students attending any of our General English courses at B1 level and above have a unique opportunity to experience our new Integrated Language Learning programme, which allows them to develop their 21st century soft skills. In addition to our face-to-face classes, we offer students opportunities to participate in our dynamic virtual courses. Students can chose from a variety of online and hybrid courses. Our hybrid classes include a range of General English programmes and IELTS or Cambridge (FCE and CAE) classes.
Our junior summer options in Ireland and UK include STEM with the Trinity College Dublin Walton Club, Discover Dublin for Young Adults, the Leinster Rugby Camp, Juventus Soccer, Horse-Riding and Golf.
Which are the types of courses taught at school?
We offer a full range of English Language and Professional Development Programmes for adults and juniors. Our face-to-face, online and hybrid courses include:
- General and Intensive English Courses, Examination Preparation Courses , English Plus Business, Teacher Training Courses, English for Academic Purposes, Executive English Language Training for groups and individuals and English Plus Internship.
- Junior Courses include Multi-Activity Programmes, English plus Sports (Horse-riding, Golf, Juventus Soccer and Leinster Rugby), English Plus Music, Discover Dublin and English plus STEM with the Trinity College Dublin Walton Club.
What are the most attractions around the school and in the city in general?
Dublin is the capital city of Ireland and has a rich and varied history spanning more than a thousand years. With a population of approximately 1.5 million, Dublin has all the advantages of a capital city while retaining the charm and warmth of a smaller one. It is a lively and bustling city, with plenty to offer by way of shopping and entertainment.
Few capitals are so beautifully situated. Dublin Bay forms a sweeping crescent from the Hill of Howth in the north of the city to Killiney in the south. The Hills of Dublin and the neighbouring county of Wicklow are within easy reach of the city centre. There is no shortage of leisure facilities in Dublin and most parts of Ireland, including the renowned scenic areas of Galway, Cork, Kerry and Donegal, are easily accessible by train or bus from Dublin.
Our school headquarters in Palmerston Park is located in a beautiful Victorian mansion in one of the most prestigious areas of Dublin.