Modern Languages
Irish
Welcome To The
Irish Department
INTRODUCTION
The Irish Department here at St Louis is committed to providing high‑ quality teaching and learning experiences that inspire, challenge, and support every student. Our aim is to equip pupils with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to thrive in our native language both in school and beyond. We take pride in creating an inclusive, engaging environment where all learners are encouraged to reach their full potential.
Our department consists of a dedicated team of teachers who bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the classroom.
MEET THE STAFF
Miss K Smith – Irish, Spanish, French
Full‑ Time Staff:
Mrs C Rodgers – Irish, SENCo, SLT
KEY STAGE 3
At KS3, students receive a broad and engaging introduction to Irish. Our curriculum is designed to build strong foundational skills while sparking curiosity and creativity. Pupils explore topics such as:
● Mé Féin - Myself
● Saol na hoibre – World of work
● Laethanta Saoire - Holidays
We use a variety of teaching approaches, including practical activities, group work, digital learning tools, and project‑ based tasks to ensure that all learners are actively involved and supported.
KEY STAGE 4
At KS4, students have the opportunity to study GCSE. This course offers a deeper exploration of Irish.
The specification comprises four externally assessed units. It gives students the opportunity to develop their language skills and widen their awareness and understanding of Irish- speaking countries/ communities. This specification focuses on the practical use of Irish and is a sound basis for progression to further study, higher education or employment.
SPECIFICATION SUMMARY The GCSE Irish specification is made up of four units:
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Unit 1: Listening (one external written examination);
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Unit 2: Speaking (one teacher-conducted speaking examination);
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Unit 3: Reading (one external written examination);
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Unit 4: Writing (one external written examination).
Our KS4 students benefit from strong departmental support, structured revision opportunities, and a focus on both progress and wellbeing.
KEY STAGE 5
Students in Year 13 can choose to study A Level Irish within our department. This advanced course encourages students to think critically, analyse in greater depth, and develop the specialist skills needed for university or the workplace.
Students can develop language skills, communication skills, knowledge and their understanding of societal, political and cultural issues in countries or communities in which the Irish language is spoken. Assessment at A2 includes varied question types, more evaluative tasks and synoptic assessment. There is a choice of films and literary works. The specification gives students a sound basis for progression to further study, higher education and employment through skills development.
Specification Summary
AS: 40% of A level
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AS 1: Speaking – Presentation [3 minutes] and a conversation [8 minutes]
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AS 2: [Section A] Listening – Two questions based on two passages [40 minutes] Sections B and C last 1 hour 20 minutes [Section B] Reading – One set of questions in Irish based on one passage and a translation from Irish into English [Section C] Use of Language – A series of short grammatical and lexical exercises and the translation of short sentences from English into Irish
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AS 3: Extended Writing – One essay response based on one set text [1 hour]
A2: 60% of A level
A2 1: Speaking – Introduction [1 minute] and discussion [5 minutes] based on an individual research project, conversation [9 minutes] based on A level themes
A2 2: Total 2 hours [Section A] Listening – Two sets of questions based on two passages [45 minutes] [Section B] Reading – Two sets of questions based on two passages, a summary exercise and a translation [2 hours]
A2 3: Extended Writing – One essay response based on one set text [1 hour