Location and Our People
IRELAND is a land famous for its natural scenic beauty, green fields and clean environment. It has a special quality that continues to attract and fascinate all who visit it. The warmth and friendliness of the Irish people is renowned, which is ideal for students wishing to improve their English speaking.
County Clare in the west of Ireland
COUNTY CLARE is famous for its friendly people, its traditional music, the Cliffs of Moher and The Burren. It is a wonderful experience to walk along Clare’s rocky coast-line with the waves of the Atlantic Ocean pounding on the shore, looking out to the Aran Islands eight miles off-shore and, with luck, a beautiful sunset to finish the day. For some visitors to Clare it is the wonderful landscape that is so extraordinary; for others it is meeting people who love to enjoy life. Everyone agrees there is something special about County Clare!
Clare English Language School is spectacularly situated amongst rolling green hills on the western shore of Lough Derg , the largest lake of the River Shannon. See map. Please note that CELS uses Raheen Wood Steiner School premises for its 3-Week Summer Course for Teenagers. It is located on the R463 near Tuamgraney.
Course Director
Bridget A. Ryan trained in TEFL/Waldorf methodology in Italy and has been teaching English in schools there for almost a decade. Her background is in journalism, social work and community-building. As chief organizer of the ‘Brigid in Europe’ Festival between Ireland and Italy, she is passionate about inter-cultural exchange. She believes that the West of Ireland’s natural beauty and the rich cultural environment in Co. Clare is the perfect setting for teenagers to explore and safely enjoy a new life experience while improving their English language skills.
Director of Studies
Ben Hogan, B.A.; H.Dip. in Ed. Ben has been teaching English since he graduated from University College Dublin in 1991 with a degree in English, Linguistics and Foreign Languages. He has worked extensively with teenagers and adults in Europe and Asia in both public and private education.
Director Emeritus
Alan Williamson B.A., M.A., TEFL has been a Waldorf teacher since 1985 and has taught English as a foreign language since 1991.
Raheen Wood Steiner School
Clare English Language School has a close connection to Raheen Wood Steiner School. Its premises are used for the 3-Week Summer Courses and money from the courses directly benefits Raheen Wood. Its location is on the edge of the ancient oak forest of Raheen Wood.
