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2027-2028 Academic Calendar

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To help all students with planning their academic year effectively, we have provided below a detailed Student Calendar for the 2026-2027 academic year. This calendar outlines all official school and Irish Bank holidays, so that students and staff can plan their personal and professional commitments accordingly.

 

🇮🇪 2027 School and Bank Holidays

Public holidays in 2027 are below:
  • Jan 1 (Fri): New Year’s Day
  • Feb 1 (Mon): St Brigid’s Day
  • Mar 17 (Wed): St Patrick’s Day
  • Mar 29 (Mon): Easter Monday
  • May 3 (Mon): May Bank Holiday
  • Jun 7 (Mon): June Bank Holiday
  • Aug 2 (Mon): August Bank Holiday
  • Oct 25 (Mon): October Bank Holiday
  • Dec 25 (Sat): Christmas Day
  • Dec 26 (Sun): St Stephen’s Day

At Christmas, the school will close for 2 weeks for students and teachers. We will close on Friday 17 December 2027 and reopen on Tuesday 4 January 2028.

Summer school dates are from from 27 June to 1 August.

Please note that while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this calendar, unforeseen changes may occur. We recommend checking for any updates or announcements throughout the year.

 

Additional Notes

  • – Our school is open from Monday to Friday, and we have classes from 9am-5pm.
  • – We offer a variety of English courses, including General English, Erasmus+ Staff Training, IELTS preparation, English for Work and more.
  • – We have a team of experienced and qualified English teachers.
  • – We offer a friendly and welcoming learning environment.
  • – All adult programmes commence on a rolling enrolment basis. Courses start every Monday, or Tuesday if Monday is a public holiday.

We look forward to welcoming you to our school!

A fantastic first year for our Waterford Summer Camp

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This summer, hundreds of young students came to Waterford for the very first Babel Academy Waterford Summer Camp.

After running our summer programmes at DCU and Manor House in Raheny for many years, opening a programme in a new city was a big addition to our summer season. Waterford welcomed groups from different countries throughout the summer, and the response from students and group leaders was fantastic.

The city itself played a big part in the programme. Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city, founded by the Vikings more than 1,100 years ago, and students had the chance to discover its Viking and medieval history during their stay. Museum visits and local cultural activities gave them a chance to see a very different side of Ireland while practising their English outside the classroom.

Babel Academy Waterford Summer Camp
Students at Babel Academy Waterford Summer Camp

Discovering Waterford and Its History

Waterford itself was an important part of the summer programme. As Ireland’s oldest city, founded by the Vikings more than 1,100 years ago, it gave students the chance to explore a part of Ireland with a very strong historical identity. During their stay, students visited museums and took part in cultural activities connected to the city’s Viking and medieval past.

These visits gave students a better sense of the place they were staying in and added a cultural element to the programme outside the classroom. They were able to explore historic parts of the city, learn about Waterford’s origins and discover some of the stories connected to its development over the centuries. It also gave them more opportunities to use English naturally while visiting attractions and taking part in guided activities.

A Full Programme of Activities

The activity programme kept students busy throughout their time in Waterford, with a wide range of activities taking place during the week. Surfing was one of the highlights, giving students the chance to get out on the Waterford coast and try something that many had never experienced before.

At the SETU Arena, groups had access to excellent sports facilities and took part in different games and organised activities. Laser tag quickly became one of the favourites, while the wider sports programme gave students plenty of opportunities to be active, spend time with their groups and enjoy a different side of the summer camp.

Students also spent time outdoors on the Dunmore East Cliff Walk. The route gave them the chance to enjoy the coastal scenery, spend time in nature and experience another side of Waterford away from the city centre. It added a quieter outdoor element to the programme and gave groups time to explore the local landscape together.

Students surfing during the Waterford Summer Camp
Students taking part in activities at SETU Arena
Summer Camp activities at SETU Arena
Students enjoying activities at SETU Arena
Students on the Dunmore East Cliff Walk
Students visiting Bishop's Palace in Waterford
Dunmore East Cliff Walk during the Waterford Summer Camp
Arts and crafts during the Waterford Summer Camp

Leadership and Innovation

Our Leadership Programme was another important part of the summer in Waterford, with a strong focus on developing skills for life and encouraging the leaders of tomorrow. Students took part in practical activities, group challenges and projects where they worked on communication, teamwork, problem solving and decision making. Innovation was a key part of the programme, with students encouraged to think creatively, develop their own ideas and find solutions together.

They had opportunities to take initiative, contribute to their groups and become more confident expressing their ideas in English. The programme brought a different dimension to their summer in Waterford, combining English learning with leadership, creativity and personal development.

Students taking part in the Waterford Leadership Programme
Students receiving certificates at the Waterford Summer Camp

The Student Experience in Waterford

For many of our students, the summer camp was their first opportunity to visit Waterford, and for some, their first time in Ireland. Over the course of their stay, they spent their days learning English, exploring the city, taking part in activities and sharing the experience with other young people from different countries.

Waterford offered a great setting for the programme. Students had a city that was easy to explore, access to the coast and outdoor activities, modern facilities at SETU and a programme that kept them active throughout their stay. There was plenty happening each week, while groups also had time to enjoy being together and get to know Waterford.

What Our Students and Group Leaders Said

The feedback we received throughout the summer was fantastic. Students spoke about how much they enjoyed Waterford, the activities and the friendships they made during the camp. We also received very positive feedback from group leaders who accompanied the students and experienced the programme throughout their stay.

As this was our first year running a Summer Camp in Waterford, hearing directly from the students and group leaders was particularly valuable. Their response confirmed just how well Waterford worked as a summer destination for our junior groups.

We have included some of their video testimonials below so you can hear directly from the students and group leaders who joined us this summer.

Seeing hundreds of students come through our first Waterford Summer Camp and enjoy the programme so much made the first year a real success.

Thank you to all of the students and group leaders who joined us, and to the teams in Waterford who worked throughout the summer to make our first season there happen. đź’š

Waterford Summer Camp 2027

Planning for summer 2027 is already underway. Agencies interested in sending groups to our Waterford Summer Camp can contact our team for information about the programme, availability and bookings for next summer.

Get in touch with our team to start planning your Waterford Summer Camp 2027 groups.

Babel Academy of English Has a New Home in Dublin City Centre

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We are pleased to announce the opening of our new location at Ulysses House on Foley Street, Dublin 1, which will become Babel Academy of English’s third school location in Dublin.

Adding Ulysses House gives us another central base for our students, with convenient public transport connections and many of Dublin’s well known areas within easy reach. The new location will operate alongside our existing schools as part of Babel Academy’s continued growth in the city.

A Central Location for Our Students

Ulysses House is located on Foley Street, close to some of Dublin’s main transport links. Connolly Station and several Dublin Bus and Luas services are nearby, making the school accessible for students travelling from different parts of Dublin.

The central location also means students can easily explore the city before or after class. Dublin’s shops, cafés, cultural attractions and busy city streets are all close to the school, giving students plenty of opportunities to use their English as part of everyday life in Dublin.

Map showing the location of Babel Academy at Ulysses House on Foley Street, Dublin

Comfortable Classrooms for Learning English

Inside Ulysses House, students will find modern, comfortable classrooms designed to provide a pleasant environment for their English lessons.

The new location gives us additional space to welcome students while maintaining the classroom environment and teaching experience that are central to our programmes.

Babel Academy at Ulysses House
Classroom at Babel Academy Ulysses House
Babel Academy new school at Ulysses House
Classroom at Ulysses House
Kitchen area at Babel Academy Ulysses House
Exterior of Ulysses House on Foley Street

Our Third Location in Dublin

Ulysses House marks an important step in the continued development of Babel Academy of English. With three locations in Dublin, we are able to welcome more students while continuing to provide access to English language programmes in central and convenient locations.

We look forward to welcoming students, teachers, partners and visitors to our new Foley Street location.

Meet Ben: Babel’s new AI Assitant

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Students planning to study English in Ireland often have many questions before booking a course. Our new AI chatbot for international students was designed to help answer common questions about English courses in Dublin, Work and Study programmes, accommodation, and student life in Ireland before contacting the school directly.

How our AI Chatbot helps International Students

Ben was designed to support students during the early stages of planning their English course in Dublin.

It can provide information about:

  • English courses in Dublin for adults
  • Work and Study programmes in Ireland
  • IELTS preparation courses
  • Junior summer programmes in Dublin and Waterford
  • Accommodation options
  • Student support services
  • Orientation and arrival information
  • Activities and excursions
  • Life in Dublin as an international student
  • Jobs Club support
  • The Student Hub for Japanese and Chinese students
  • Differences between programmes and schedules

Students can ask questions naturally and receive guidance based on the information available on the Babel Academy website and official programme information.

 

English Courses in Dublin Explained More Clearly

One of the main goals of Ben is to help students better understand which course may fit their plans before contacting the school directly.

For example, students often ask:

  • Which English course is best for work opportunities in Ireland?
  • What is the difference between General English and IELTS?
  • How do Work and Study programmes work?
  • Which junior programme is better for my child?
  • What support is available after arrival in Dublin?

Ben can help you understand these options in a simpler and more conversational way.

 

Support for International Students in Ireland

Moving to another country to study English can feel confusing during the first days after arrival.

Ben can also answer practical questions related to:

  • arriving in Dublin
  • accommodation
  • student support
  • daily life in Ireland
  • transport
  • orientation information
  • activities and student experience

What the Chatbot Does Not Do

The chatbot does not replace the Babel Academy team.

We know how important human support and personal interaction are when students are planning to study abroad or adapting to life in Ireland. Many situations still need direct communication with real staff members who can provide personalised guidance and support.

The purpose of Ben is simply to help students receive quick answers to common questions and general doubts while exploring courses and programmes for the first time.

  • official quotations
  • pricing confirmation
  • enrolments
  • availability checks
  • personalised cases
  • operational arrangements

In these situations, students are guided to contact the school directly through the enquiry form.

A More Natural Way to Explore Studying English in Ireland

Our AI Assistant was designed to make finding information easier!

Instead of reading through many pages, students can ask questions directly and receive simple explanations about courses, programmes, and student life in Ireland.

The chatbot is now available through the Babel Academy website.

You can explore our English courses in Dublin here:
https://babelacademy.ie/course-categories/adults-courses/

Or visit the Babel Academy homepage to try the chatbot:
https://babelacademy.ie/

Japanese and Chinese Student Support in Dublin: Babel Academy’s New Student Hub

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Moving to another country to study English can feel confusing during the first few days after arrival. At Babel Academy, we recently introduced additional Japanese and Chinese student support in Dublin through our new Student Hub for adult students, designed to help them settle into life in Ireland during their first weeks.

At the school, all students already receive practical guidance during Orientation Day. This includes information about living in Dublin, transport, accommodation, school procedures, and student life in Ireland.

This year, we decided to also offer part of that arrival support in Japanese and Chinese.

 

 

What Is the Student Hub?

The Student Hub is a support meeting available for Japanese and Chinese adult students during their first weeks in Ireland. Students can meet with Hiroko (Japanese) or Kevin (Chinese) to ask practical questions and receive guidance in their own language, especially if they do not yet feel confident communicating fully in English.

The support is very similar to the information covered during Orientation Day, but offered again in Japanese or Chinese to help students better understand daily life in Dublin after arrival.

The idea came from observing that many students still needed help after Orientation Day, particularly during the adjustment period after arrival. Even students with good English levels sometimes feel more comfortable discussing practical problems in their native language at the beginning.

Why Japanese and Chinese Student Support in Dublin Matters

Every year, many students travel to Ireland for the first time to improve their English and experience life abroad.

The classroom is only one part of that experience. The first days in Dublin usually involve paperwork, transport, accommodation, shopping, registration procedures, and adapting to a completely different routine.

Students often need to register with Irish Immigration after arrival, especially long term students. Information about immigration procedures can be found on the official Irish Immigration website:
https://www.irishimmigration.ie/

Public transport is another thing students usually need to organise quickly after arrival. Many students use the Leap Card system while studying in Dublin:
https://about.leapcard.ie/

The Student Hub was created because these practical things are often easier to understand when students can ask questions in Japanese or Chinese during the first stage of their stay.

Support During the First Weeks in Ireland

The Student Hub focuses mainly on arrival support and practical day to day questions.

Students often ask for help with:

  • – Immigration appointments in Ireland
  • -Public transport and Leap Cards
  • -Accommodation questions
  • -Opening a bank account in Dublin
  • -Buying SIM cards and phone plans
  • -Understanding official documents
  • -Navigating the city
  • -Adapting to life in Ireland

 

The idea is simple. After Orientation Day, students can still meet with Hiroko or Kevin in Japanese or Chinese if they need help understanding something during their first weeks in Dublin

Student Life and Student Support in Dublin

Every year, thousands of students come to Dublin to improve their English, experience Irish culture, and prepare for work, university, or international opportunities.

The academic side is only one part of the experience. Feeling comfortable in the city, understanding local systems, and knowing where to ask for help also affect how students adapt during their stay abroad.

At Babel Academy, the Student Hub became a natural extension of the support already provided during Orientation Day, especially for students who may need extra guidance during the first stage of their experience in Ireland.

Student Life at Babel Academy

Babel Academy offers English courses in Dublin for adult international students from different countries and backgrounds, including long-term and short-term adult students arriving in Ireland for the first time. Alongside classes, the school provides support services, social activities, accommodation assistance, and guidance throughout the student experience.

The Student Hub is one of the newest initiatives introduced for Japanese and Chinese students arriving in Ireland.

You can learn more about studying English in Dublin and the different options we offer here: Adult Courses

La ventaja que marca la diferencia entre los jóvenes en el mercado laboral español

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En el mercado laboral español, el inglés ha dejado de ser un valor añadido para convertirse en un requisito frecuente.

Según el Informe Infoempleo Adecco, el 32,2 % de las ofertas de empleo en España requiere un segundo idioma, y en más del 90 % de esos casos el idioma solicitado es el inglés (Infoempleo & Adecco, 2023).

Mayor empleabilidad y acceso a puestos cualificados

El mismo informe señala que la exigencia de idiomas es significativamente mayor en puestos técnicos, mandos intermedios y directivos. En posiciones de mayor responsabilidad, el requisito de inglés puede superar el 60 % (Infoempleo & Adecco, 2023).

Esto refleja una realidad clara: cuanto mayor es el nivel del puesto, mayor es la probabilidad de que se requiera inglés.

El inglés y el desempleo juvenil en España

España mantiene una de las tasas de desempleo juvenil más altas de la Unión Europea. Según datos de Eurostat, en 2025 la tasa de desempleo entre menores de 25 años en España se situaba en torno al 23 %, muy por encima de la media europea (Eurostat, 2026).

El inglés aumenta la competitividad salarial

Estudios internacionales muestran que el dominio avanzado del inglés se asocia con mayores niveles de ingresos y satisfacción laboral. Una investigación global de Pearson encontró que el 80 % de los encuestados considera que tener un buen nivel de inglés está relacionado con un mayor potencial salarial (Gioannelli, 2024).

Aunque el impacto exacto puede variar según sector y experiencia, en España los perfiles bilingües tienden a acceder con mayor facilidad a empresas multinacionales, startups tecnológicas y puestos vinculados a exportación o comercio exterior.

¿Podrías usar el inglés con seguridad en una entrevista, en una reunión o en un entorno internacional?

Cómo saber cuál es tu nivel de inglés

Más allá de certificados, tu nivel se mide por lo que puedes hacer en situaciones reales.

Nivel A1 : Básico inicial

Puedes:

  • Presentarte y dar informaciĂłn personal sencilla
  • Entender frases muy básicas si se hablan despacio

No puedes:

  • Mantener una conversaciĂłn más allá de intercambios cortos
  • Desenvolverte en una entrevista profesional

En este nivel, el objetivo es construir una base sólida que permita comprender y producir estructuras muy básicas con seguridad. Lo importante es ganar confianza y empezar a utilizar el idioma en situaciones simples sin depender completamente de apoyo externo.

Nivel A2 : Básico

Puedes:

  • Mantener conversaciones sencillas sobre temas cotidianos
  • Describir experiencias simples en pasado
  • Comprender informaciĂłn básica si se expresa con claridad

Dificultades habituales:

  • Dependencia de estructuras simples
  • Dificultad para seguir conversaciones naturales entre nativos
  • LimitaciĂłn importante de vocabulario

En este nivel, el objetivo es ampliar estructuras y vocabulario básico para poder mantener intercambios más largos y menos dependientes de frases memorizadas. Se busca empezar a ganar autonomía comunicativa en situaciones cotidianas y avanzar hacia mayor fluidez

Nivel B1 : Intermedio

Es uno de los niveles más habituales en España.

Puedes:

  • Mantener conversaciones relativamente fluidas sobre temas conocidos
  • Expresar opiniones y justificar ideas sencillas
  • Comprender la idea general en reuniones no tĂ©cnicas

Dificultades habituales:

  • Pausas frecuentes al hablar
  • Vocabulario limitado en contexto profesional
  • Inseguridad al defender ideas con precisiĂłn

En este nivel, el objetivo es consolidar la fluidez y reducir las pausas al hablar, ampliando el vocabulario y la precisión en contextos más formales. Se trata de pasar de una comunicación funcional a una comunicación más segura y sostenida, especialmente en entornos profesionales.

Nivel B2 : Intermedio alto

Puedes:

  • Participar en conversaciones complejas
  • Defender opiniones
  • Comprender discusiones tĂ©cnicas en tu sector

Dificultades habituales:

  • Falta de naturalidad
  • Errores sutiles
  • Limitaciones en vocabulario especĂ­fico

En este nivel, el objetivo es perfeccionar la naturalidad y la precisiĂłn en el uso del idioma. Se busca consolidar vocabulario especĂ­fico, ganar soltura en conversaciones complejas y desenvolverse con mayor seguridad en reuniones, entrevistas o contextos internacionales.

Nivel C1 : Avanzado

Puedes:

  • Expresarte con fluidez y espontaneidad
  • Adaptar el registro segĂşn el contexto profesional
  • Participar en negociaciones complejas
  • Redactar informes con precisiĂłn
  • Comprender distintos acentos

Dificultades habituales:

  • Matices culturales especĂ­ficos
  • Vocabulario altamente especializado
  • InteracciĂłn en contextos de alta presiĂłn

En este nivel, el objetivo es afinar cĂłmo utilizas el idioma en contextos reales de alta exigencia. Se busca ganar mayor seguridad al interactuar con distintos acentos, adaptarte con naturalidad a diferentes entornos profesionales y comunicarte con precisiĂłn incluso bajo presiĂłn.

Cuánto tiempo se tarda realmente en mejorar

El Marco ComĂşn Europeo de Referencia para las Lenguas relaciona los niveles con horas aproximadas de aprendizaje acumuladas.

      • A1: alrededor de 200 horas
      • A2: alrededor de 400 horas acumuladas
      • B1: alrededor de 600 horas acumuladas
      • B2: alrededor de 800 horas acumuladas

(Rosetta Stone, 2023)

Estas cifras son orientativas y suelen basarse en aprendizaje estructurado tradicional. No reflejan completamente el impacto de la exposiciĂłn continua en un entorno de habla inglesa.

Por qué la inmersión acelera el aprendizaje

La investigaciĂłn en adquisiciĂłn de segundas lenguas ha demostrado que la interacciĂłn frecuente y significativa favorece el desarrollo lingĂĽĂ­stico (Long, 1996).

      • La comprensiĂłn mejora más rápido
      • La producciĂłn oral se automatiza
      • El vocabulario se consolida en contexto
      • La confianza aumenta progresivamente

Vivir en un país de habla inglesa no garantiza resultados automáticos, pero aumenta la intensidad de exposición y práctica, lo que puede reducir el tiempo necesario para alcanzar competencia funcional comparado con estudiar únicamente en el país de origen.

La diferencia entre estudiar y desenvolverse

      • AutomatizaciĂłn
      • Seguridad
      • Capacidad de reacciĂłn espontánea
      • Uso continuo en contexto real

Ese salto es el que suele marcar la diferencia en empleabilidad.

Antes de decidir cuánto tiempo estudiar

No todas las personas necesitan el mismo nĂşmero de semanas.

      • Tu nivel actual
      • Tu objetivo profesional o acadĂ©mico
      • El grado de autonomĂ­a que necesites alcanzar

La decisión no debería basarse en cuántas semanas puedes hacer, sino en cuánto tiempo necesitas para alcanzar el nivel que te permita utilizar el inglés con seguridad.

ÂżTe interesa conocer nuestros programas?

Si estás considerando mejorar tu inglés mediante una experiencia de estudio en inmersión, puedes recibir información detallada sobre nuestros programas, duraciones y precios.


SOLICITAR INFORMACIĂ“N

What is the official Student Leap Card requirement in 2026?

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Over the past months, there has been some confusion online about Student Leap Card eligibility, especially around how many study hours are required to be considered full time for international students in Ireland. Different sources mentioned different thresholds, which understandably created uncertainty for students and education providers.

We’re happy to confirm that this has now been clearly clarified by Transport for Ireland, and the news is positive for many students at Babel Academy.

What is the official requirement?

According to the official TFI Leap Card guidance, students are eligible for a Student Leap Card if they are enrolled in:

  • Full time education or training with 15 or more hours per week, and

  • A course with a minimum duration of 6 months (25 weeks)

This confirms that 15+ hours per week is officially considered full time for Student Leap Card purposes.

Why was there confusion?

For a period of time, different statements circulated online referring to:

  • 15 hours

  • 16 hours

  • or “full time” without a clear definition

The most up to date and authoritative source, however, is the official Leap Card website managed by Transport for Ireland, which in 2026 clearly states the 15+ hours requirement.

You can have a look at the official information here:

TFI Leapcard Site

Can English language students get a Student Leap Card?

Yes, English language students can qualify for a Student Leap Card, provided their programme meets the official criteria:

  • At least 15 hours of study per week

  • A minimum course length of 6 months (25 weeks)

  • The relevant age requirements

What does this mean for Babel Academy students?

This confirmation means that:


students enrolled in qualifying long term programmes (Work and Study Programme) at Babel Academy
can access the Student Leap Card.

In practice, this allows eligible students to:

  • Travel around Dublin and Ireland at discounted student fares

  • Use public transport more affordably while studying

  • Better manage living costs during their stay

We will continue to support students by providing the official enrolment letters needed for Leap Card applications and by guiding them through the process during orientation.

If you would like to explore our available courses and see which options may suit you best, you can find more information below. You can also request a personalised quote at any time.

👉 View available courses
👉 Request a quote

English Course Prices in Dublin: What’s Included & Why They Vary

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Understanding the Value Behind English Course Prices in Dublin

If you’ve ever searched for English course prices in Dublin, you’ve probably noticed that costs vary from one school to another. At Babel Academy of English in Dublin, your tuition fee covers far more than classroom hours. Every course is designed as a complete language learning experience with personalised teaching, modern tools, and ongoing support to help you achieve your goals.

Here’s what’s included:

âś… Experienced Teachers & Communicative Methodology
Learn with qualified, experienced teachers who use interactive and real-life learning approaches.

➡️ Discover our teaching approach

âś… Small Class Sizes
Classes are limited to a maximum of 15 students to ensure personal attention and progress.

âś… Digital Learning Tools
Every student has access to GELnet, an online platform that tracks progress, suggests personal study plans, and extends learning beyond the classroom. Discover the GELnet app

âś… Placement Testing & Progress Reviews
You’ll start at the right level and receive regular feedback to ensure continuous improvement.

âś… Cultural and Social Activities
Enjoy real-world English practice through excursions, cultural outings, and Dublin-based social events.

âś… Certificate & Support Services
Finally, every student receives a certificate of completion, along with access to student support, accommodation advice, and a welcoming Dublin experience.

What other fees do I need to pay?

 What Other Fees Apply to English Courses in Dublin

In addition to your tuition fee, there are a few additional costs that help cover materials, registration, and essential student services. These are standard across accredited English language schools in Ireland and ensure a smooth, well-supported study experience.

Here’s what to expect at Babel Academy of English:

  • 🧾 Registration Fee: Covers administrative setup, placement testing, and certification.

  • đź“š Course Materials Fee: €50 for short-term courses (1–11 weeks) or €85 for long-term enrolments (12+ weeks). This includes printed materials and access to digital resources like GELnet.

  • 🧍‍♀️ Learner Protection Insurance (for long-term students): Required for non-EU students or anyone taking a long-stay visa course (typically 25 weeks). It guarantees your tuition is protected.

  • 🏥 Medical Insurance for Non-EU Students: According to the Irish Immigration Service, all non-EU students must have valid health insurance for the duration of their stay to meet Irish visa requirements. Babel Academy can help you arrange approved cover at competitive rates when you enrol.

  • 🏡 Accommodation Booking Fee: Applies when you book accommodation (host family or residence) through the school.

  • đźš– Airport Transfer Fee (optional): Available for students arriving in Dublin who want pickup service.

  • 🎓 Exam or Certification Fees (optional): Some specialised courses (e.g. IELTS, Business English) may have separate external exam fees.

These small but essential fees ensure full support, compliance with Irish education standards, and a seamless arrival and learning experience. You can also check the official Education in Ireland site for visa information.

Can I Pay for My English Course Monthly?

This is a common question, and the answer depends on the type of course you’re taking.

For most courses at Babel Academy:

“All course fees should be paid in full at least 30 days prior to the student commencing their course.”
(Source: Terms & Conditions)

That means full payment before starting your course is the standard policy.

However, for long-term or group programmes, it’s always worth asking directly. The team at Babel is approachable and may discuss flexible arrangements depending on the course type or institutional agreements.
➡️ Contact us to discuss payment options 

Why Do English Course Prices in Dublin Vary So Much?

If you’ve researched English courses in Dublin, you’ve probably noticed prices can vary quite a lot. Let’s unpack why  and what affects the cost.

1. Course Intensity and Hours per Week: How Course Duration Affects English Course Prices in Dublin

  • Standard English for Life: 15 hours/week

  • Intensive English: 30 hours/week

  • IELTS Preparation / English for Work: 20 hours/week

➡️ See full price list

More hours = more teaching time = higher cost.

2. Course Duration & Discounts

Longer courses often include discounts.
For example: 15% discount on tuition fees for bookings of 12+ weeks.

Materials fees also vary by course length (€50 for 1–11 weeks, €85 for 12+ weeks)

We  usually offer discounts, get in touch with us to know our special promotions.

3. Extras and Services Included

At Babel, the value is in the whole experience, not just tuition hours:

  • Social and cultural programmes

  • Digital learning tools (GELnet access)

  • Progress tracking

  • Certificates and student support

These extras enhance learning and are part of what makes quality schools slightly more expensive, and more effective.

4. Location & Facilities

Babel Academy is based in Dublin city centre (Eden Quay / Capel Street), offering easy access to transport, attractions, and a lively student environment.
Prime location = higher operating costs, but also a better overall experience.
➡️ Why choose Babel?

5. Visa, Accreditation & Quality Standards

Non-EU students require extra services such as visa support, learner protection insurance, and compliance with Department of Justice regulations. Accredited schools like Babel offer these standards, ensuring safety and transparency.

6. Seasonal Demand & Offers

Prices can vary by season, summer programmes tend to be more in demand. Booking early or studying outside the high season can save you money.

Tips for Comparing English Course Prices in Dublin

When comparing English course prices in Dublin, consider these key questions:

  • How many hours per week are included?

  • Are materials, registration, and certificates included?

  • What’s the class size and teaching quality?

  • Are there extras like excursions or e-learning tools?

  • Does the school provide student support and accommodation help?

  • What are the payment terms and deadlines?

Final Thoughts

English course prices in Dublin can vary, but understanding what’s included helps you see the real value of your investment. At Babel Academy of English, every course is designed to combine expert teaching, real-life learning, and genuine care, all in the heart of Dublin.

🎯 Ready to learn English in Dublin?
➡️ View our current courses and prices
➡️ Contact us for advice or bookings

2026-2027 Academic Calendar

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To help all students with planning their academic year effectively, we have provided below a detailed Student Calendar for the 2026-2027 academic year. This calendar outlines all official school and Irish Bank holidays, so that students and staff can plan their personal and professional commitments accordingly.

Calendar 2026 by Melisa

🇮🇪 2026 School and Bank Holidays

Thursday, 1 January 2026 – New Year’s Day

Monday, 2 February 2026 – St Brigid’s Day

Tuesday, 17 March 2026 – St Patrick’s Day

Monday, 6 April 2026 – Easter Monday

Monday, 4 May 2026 – May Day

Monday, 1 June 2026 – June Bank Holiday

Monday, 3 August 2026 – August Bank Holiday

Monday, 26 October 2026 – October Bank Holiday

Friday, 25 December 2026 – Christmas Day

Saturday, 26 December 2026 – St Stephen’s Day

Summer school dates are from 28 June to 2 August.

Please note that while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this calendar, unforeseen changes may occur. We recommend checking for any updates or announcements throughout the year.

 

Additional Notes

  • – Our school is open from Monday to Friday, and we have classes from 9am-5pm.
  • – We offer a variety of English courses, including General English, Erasmus+ Staff Training, IELTS preparation, English for Work and more.
  • – We have a team of experienced and qualified English teachers.
  • – We offer a friendly and welcoming learning environment.
  • – All adult programmes commence on a rolling enrolment basis. Courses start every Monday, or Tuesday if Monday is a public holiday.

We look forward to welcoming you to our school!

Sustainability & Wellbeing in Education

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Overview

This course is for staff in educational settings who wish to incorporate sustainability and promote student wellbeing in their institution. Through workshops, we facilitate a collegial environment where participants can learn from one another and gain a refreshed perspective on their roles.

Methodological Approach

Group work, discussions and practical activities ensure participants gain useful ideas to bring back to their institution. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences with others, learning about how others deal with different workplace contexts & challenges.

Content includes

  • – Alternative lesson planning and presentations
  • – Turning sustainability awareness into action
  • – Focus on wellbeing in the classroom environment

 

Learning outcomes

  • – Enhance knowledge of sustainability & wellbeing in education
  • – Produce educational materials that can be adapted for different workplace contexts

Requirements

  • -Teaching and non-teaching staff who are non-native English speakers
  • -Minimum B1 English language level

 

What’s included

  • – Registration fee
  • – Course tuition
  • – Learning materials
  • – Two cultural excursions
  • – Course certificate
  • – E-learning App access

Course Days

Monday to Friday. Saturday is an optional full day trip

Course Details

20 hours Tuition + 5 Hours Excursions/Project Work

Duration

1 week (2 weeks – choose different course for additional week)

Pre Course Online Session arranged in advance

Fee

€495

2026 Course Dates

27 April, 27 July, 26 October

Sample Schedule

Time Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
09:00-12:15 – Course orientation
– Methodology		 – Teaching tools
– Innovative Methods		 Application in different teaching contexts – Personal project introduction
– Irish culture		 – Presentation
– Course review		 Day Trip (optional addition)
14:00-16:30 Language Fluency Excursion Language Fluency Project work Excursion
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