High School information

Irish students attend eight years of primary school, and then complete 5 or 6 years of secondary school. In the fourth year of secondary school, students can choose to do a "transition" year where they learn about different careers, or complete the final two years of secondary school. EF students usually attend either the transition year or the 5th year.

Some subjects, such as English and maths, are compulsory. Other classes, such as business organisation, music and history, are optional. Options vary from school to school and there is often the possibility of studying another language like French, German or Spanish.

The atmosphere is formal but friendly, and teachers are addresses by ‘Mr or Ms.’ Most schools require their students to wear a school uniform. Sports and hobbies are encouraged. Gaelic football, hurling, rugby and rowing are very popular. Some girls play "camogie" the Irish version of hockey.