Beginning to Learn
Whether you are just getting started or you need to review the basics, our introductory courses will make you feel right at home speaking Irish.
Corresponds to Fluency From Absolute Beginner to A2/B1
Begin at the Beginning….
Dedicated Teachers
Our teachers understand how difficult it is to learn a new language. Working with a group that has been teaching the language since 1872 has its advantages: we have the experience to help you learn!
Supportive Community
You’ll take classes with other students who are on the same journey that you are taking. Study groups and friendships made along the way will help carry you forward to your goal.
Respected Texts
Our classes use a variety of respected texts to teach the language, all of which are readily available via online retailers. We also provide our own materials to help students begin to learn quickly.
Autumn 2025 Basic Level
Starting to Learn
Gearóid Ó Ceallaigh / Jerry Kelly.
Fridays at Noon and 8PM New York Time beginning Friday, September 19 New York Time.
This is where beginners begin. Master Irish phonetics (which are very different from every other phonetic system on the planet except Scottish Gaelic), obtain an overview of the structure of the language, and explore ancient Gaelic and Celtic culture.
Sign in at https://groups.io/g/philo-startingtolearn .
Progress in Irish 1-15 (Section A)
Pádraig Ó hÁinle / Patrick Hanley.
Saturdays at 11am CDT/5pm Irish Time beginning September 13, 2025 .
Sign in at https://groups.io/g/philo-progress1-15 .
Progress in Irish 16-30 (Section A)
Pádraig Ó hÁinle / Patrick Hanley.
Saturdays at 1pm CDT/7pm Irish Time beginning September 13, 2025.
Sign in at https://groups.io/g/philo-progress16-30 .
Exploring Irish
Gráinne Ní Chaimbéal.
Wednesdays at 1PM New York beginning September 24, 2025 New York Time. 10AM in California, 6PM in Ireland, 10PM in Dubai.
Continuing from the prior term so join now! We explore the Irish Language in all available mediums, from internet memes to movie posters, poems, songs, folklore, and mythology like Oisín i dTír na n-Óg. Bilingual conversation in Gaeilge and English as we build our vocabulary together. All levels are welcome!
Sign in at https://groups.io/g/philo-Irish-memes .