Halloween in Ireland
Halloween originated in Ireland. It comes from the ancient Celtic festival Samhain which is pronounced sow- in. This is old Irish and means end of summer. The 1stof November became known as- All Saints or All hallows day which was a day to honour for all the saints and martyrs. This resulted in the night […]
Athlone is “where it’s at” this St Patrick’s Weekend!
Ireland is renowned around the world as the “Land of Saints & Scholars”, due to its huge impact on culture (both religious and literary). In fact Ireland has three patron saints – Saint Brigid of Kildare, Saint Columba and, last but not least, Saint Patrick. Credited with the foundation of Christianity in Ireland, Patrick […]
A delicious piece of Irish Cuisine
When one thinks of Irish cuisine things like potatoes, coddle, bacon & cabbage and stew often jump to mind. However, one of the most popular Irish foods is what we refer to as “Brown Bread”. Irish Soda Bread, is commonly made using ingredients such as flour, baking soda (or bread soda), salt and buttermilk – […]
Mario Pozo Jiménez – My experience as a student in Ireland
Mario tells us a little about his experience as a student in Ireland. I arrived in Ireland on the 26th August and I went to my host family´s house. My first impression was that the family was kind. I was a little worried at the beginning because I did not understand everything that they were […]
A day trip to Dublin
A trip to Dublin would not be complete without spending some time in the city’s famed Temple Bar area. This vibrant area is filled with bars and restaurants, cobbled pathways and it is renowned for being the cultural quarter of the city. Some of our students taking an opportunity for a photograph on their trip […]
Irish Proverbs
1. For every mile of road there are 2 miles of ditches Meaning: There are two sides to every story. 2. There is no use boiling your cabbage twice Meaning: Stop going over and over worries in your head because it solves nothing. 3. The older the fiddle the sweeter the tune Meaning: Things and […]
Famous Irish people and where they live
Ireland is home to many famous faces. Bono is well known worldwide for being the lead vocalist for the Irish band U2. He was born in Dublin, Ireland and his family home is in Ballymun,which is located north-side Dublin.The obscenely rich Irish musician has since moved to the celebrity hotspot of Killiney with his family […]
Student Trip to Causey Farm
Our students regularly take trips to various places throughout their time in Ireland. Here is an account of a day trip to Causey Farm, which is located in Navan, in County Meath. Causey Farm offers a variety of activities and a wonderful day out for our students, leaders and teachers. Activities include bread making, sheep […]
Laura Kelly-Cultural Teacher
Hi! My name is Laura and I am part of the team here at Shannon Academy of English. My experience working here has been nothing short of excellent. My role within the academy includes teaching and facilating activities and trips for our students. Our program sees a number of students from different countries arrive each […]
Student Diary: Laura Montoliu
I arrived in Ireland at the end of August, one week before school started. My first impression was that it was colder than in Spain. My host family were very kind and welcoming as soon as I met them. I immediately began to relax. The house was very big and cosy. I was happy. I […]