Meet Felicity Hamill, Erasmus+ Co-ordinator at Emerald Cultural Institute, Dublin
How long has your centre been hosting Erasmus+ participants, and what experience do you bring to international education?
Emerald Cultural Institute has been proudly welcoming participants through the Erasmus+ programme since its inception over ten years ago. However, our involvement in EU-funded education and training initiatives dates back much further. Since opening our doors nearly 40 years ago, we have hosted participants under earlier programmes such as the Lifelong Learning Programme, Socrates, and Comenius.
In the field of education, we offer a wide range of professional development courses tailored to the needs of educators at all levels — from pre-primary and primary to secondary and vocational education. Our programmes include specialised training in areas such as CLIL, STEM, and language methodology.
Beyond teacher training, we have also delivered practical, industry-focused courses for learners in fields like Catering, Tourism, and Hospitality, ensuring that participants gain both valuable skills and a rich cultural experience.
What range of Erasmus+ courses and training programmes does your centre offer, and how do they meet the needs of today’s educators?
As the needs of participants under E+ programmes are constantly evolving we are continually expanding and improving our range of E+ programmes. Currently we are offering 12 standalone courses, but we can also develop and tailor a programme to a group’s specific needs.
- English Language and Irish Culture
- Enhanced English for Professionals
- English and Intercultural Communication
- English Language Development
- Lifelong Skills Pathway
- Effective English Teaching: Primary Years
- Effective English Teaching: Secondary Years
- Integrating Digital Tools and AI in Teaching
- CLIL in Action: A Practical Toolkit
- Teacher Wellbeing
- Inclusive Teaching and Universal Design for Learning
- Sustainability: Empowering Educators for a Greener Future
What kind of support do you provide before, during, and after the course to make participants feel at home?
“People are at the heart of what we do.”
Personal attention is one of our core principles, and our goal is to ensure every course participant has the best possible experience—both inside and outside the classroom. We take a holistic, student-centred approach, tailoring our support to meet individual needs before, during, and after the course.
Before arrival, our Erasmus+ Coordinator is on hand to guide you through programme selection, answer any questions about your stay, and help with administrative matters such as paperwork and learning agreements. You will also complete a pre-arrival written assessment and meet online with a member of our academic team to discuss your programme and to prepare you for your course with us.
During the course, support continues through multiple channels. The Erasmus+ Coordinator remains available throughout your stay, while our Director of Studies and Academic Administrator are onsite to help with any academic questions. In addition, our dedicated Student Welfare Team and Accommodation Officers are there to help participants to make the most of their time in Dublin
After the course, we’re happy to assist with any final documentation, feedback, or guidance.
In short, we aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment where every participant feels valued and well taken care of—every step of the way.
What makes your training centre special as an Erasmus+ destination?
Emerald stands out as a top Erasmus+ destination thanks to its exceptional location and facilities, and its commitment to the individual.
Just a short tram ride from the heart of Dublin, our training centre is set beside the beautiful Palmerston Park, offering a peaceful and inspiring environment that perfectly complements the vibrancy of city life. Our school features bright, spacious, and fully equipped classrooms designed to support dynamic, interactive learning. Participants can also enjoy access to large private gardens and an on-site canteen serving a variety of hot and cold dishes made with fresh, locally sourced Irish ingredients.
What truly sets Emerald apart is our commitment to the individual. Personal attention is our core principle and our aim is to ensure an optimal student experience within and beyond the classroom. Our dedicated team of experienced, highly qualified teachers and support staff work together to ensure that every course participant receives a warm welcome, personal support, and a truly memorable learning experience
Why do you think Ireland is such a powerful place for Erasmus+ professional development?
Ireland thrives on a culture of innovation and inclusion. In Dublin, where global leaders in technology, pharmaceuticals, and consulting have set up their headquarters, the city is full of diverse talent and cutting-edge expertise.
Renowned for its rich traditions in music, storytelling, and literature, Ireland is a place where history and creativity come alive wherever you go. From the vibrant streets of Dublin to the breathtaking coastal landscapes and magnificent countryside, Ireland offers unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
Ireland is also a great place for language students to learn or improve English, surrounded by native speakers in a welcoming environment. Participants can engage in language learning both inside and outside the classroom, while also gaining insight into Ireland’s deep literary heritage—home to legends such as James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, Samuel Beckett and Seamus Heaney.
From Irish music sessions in traditional pubs to lively festivals and coastal walks, there is something for everyone. Every conversation is a chance to learn, and every experience is an opportunity to grow.
Erasmus + courses offer the opportunity to make lifelong memories, develop professional and language skills, and broaden your cultural horizons.
What cultural or social activities can participants enjoy during their stay with you?
Throughout their stay, participants can enjoy a diverse and vibrant schedule of social and cultural activities. From day one, they are welcomed with a guided orientation tour of Dublin led by one of our experienced Emerald guides. They are then free to take part in a wide range of activities offered during their time with us. Typical activities may include a visit to the The National Gallery, St Patricks Cathedral, Phoenix Park, The Book of Kells, The GPO museum or a board games afternoon midweek and we offer a full day weekend tour for example the Cliffs of Moher, Glendalough Monastery, Blarney Castle and more. Many of these experiences are included in the course fee, while some optional activities may involve a small additional cost.
How would you describe the cultural vibe of your city, and what activities or traditions should participants not miss?
Dublin is a city with a warm, welcoming vibe—cosmopolitan yet with unique local character. It’s a place where the past and present blend seamlessly, offering a wonderful cultural experience. Whether you’re exploring its historic streets or enjoying its lively arts scene, Dublin offers a special cultural experience that’s always evolving.
The National Gallery and National Museum are open to visitors year-round free of charge.
No one should miss the magic of live music in a traditional pub, where locals and visitors come together to enjoy everything from folk tunes to modern acoustic sets. Dublin’s literary heritage is everywhere, from Joyce to Wilde, with stories around every corner. Many visitors to Dublin enjoy exploring Trinity College Dublin- home to the historic Long Room and the Book of Kells. A tour of the iconic Guinness Storehouse is a great way to spend an afternoon in Dublin. Ireland’s sporting heritage is celebrated in the Croke Park interactive museum and Europe’s largest city park, the Phoenix Park is well worth a visit.
In what ways does your centre encourage Erasmus+ participants from across Europe to connect and collaborate with each other?
Emerald Cultural Institute actively fosters collaboration by creating a learning environment that extends beyond the classroom. We bring together participants from across Europe who share knowledge, innovative work practices and expertise with each other and with their tutors. Many participants forge contacts that they maintain long after the course has ended. Social activities are integrated into the programme to encourage meaningful connections. By combining structured collaboration with informal opportunities to exchange ideas, we ensure participants leave not only with new skills, but also with lasting professional relationships across borders.
Want to learn more about Emerald Cultural Institute? You can read our interview here with the School Director, Mauro Biondi.