Aspiring Primary Teachers

Do you want to become a Primary Teacher but Irish is holding you back?

Irish is a core part of teaching in Irish primary schools from classroom language and instructions to planning, communication, and professional competence. For many aspiring teachers, it’s the one requirement that feels most daunting.

If Irish is holding you back from progressing to a PME or primary teaching career, focused support can make all the difference.

TEG B1 Oral Exam Support

The TEG B1 offers an alternative pathway for applicants seeking entry to primary teacher education programmes in Ireland. The oral examination provides an opportunity to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in Irish.

The focus is on clear, confident communication rather than perfect grammar or accent - giving you a practical and achievable way to meet Irish language entry requirements.

The exam is short and practical, focusing on:

• Everyday conversation

• Role-play scenarios

• Describing a short picture sequence

These tasks reflect how Irish is used in real classroom and school settings.

Hibernia College Entry Requirements (Primary Teaching)

Many aspiring primary teachers worry that Irish or entry requirements will prevent them from applying to Hibernia College. In reality, the pathway is achievable with the right preparation.

Key Entry Requirements

To apply for the PME in Primary Education at Hibernia College, you must have:

• A Level 8 degree (or higher) with 180 ECTS credits

• Minimum Leaving Certificate requirements in Irish, English, and Maths

Irish is often the main concern for adult learners.

If You Don’t Meet the Leaving Cert Irish Requirement

If you don’t have H4/C2 in Leaving Cert Irish, you can instead:

• Pass the TEG B2 (Meánleibhéal 2) exam

• Repeat Leaving Cert Irish

Choosing the right option depends on your confidence with spoken Irish and this is where targeted guidance is essential.

Interviews & Irish Language Options

Applicants complete an English interview and an Irish interview. Many adult learners choose to sit the TEG B1 Irish Oral Exam instead:

• A result of 65% or higher can exempt you from the Irish interview

• The exam focuses on practical spoken Irish, not perfection

How I Can Help

As a qualified primary teacher, I understand both the language requirements and the real demands of the classroom. Lessons focus on practical spoken Irish, clear structure, and building confidence - not rote learning or memorised answers.

• Build confidence in spoken Irish

• Prepare effectively for TEG B1

• Prepare for the Irish element of the Hibernia interview

• Understand what Irish is actually required in primary classrooms

Lessons are practical, supportive, and focused on helping you meet requirements with confidence - not memorisation or pressure.

Are you ready to improve your
competence and confidence as Gaeilge?

I would love to help you on your learning journey.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions or to book a session.

Jade H.

"I am a college student who was looking for help to study for the B1 oral TEG exam. Miriam helped me so much and was very accomodating to my needs. She is a very patient and helpful tutor. "

Michelle

"Could not recommend Miriam enough! She has such a friendly and helpful nature. I contacted Miriam with help for applying for the PME in Primary Teaching for Hibernia. She not only improved my fluency in Irish but she also instilled a love of Irish and a confidence in me regarding my fluency. Her kindness and caring nature really helped me achieve my goal."

What my students say

TESTIMONIALS

Rachel

"Miriam is an amazing teacher and I've learned so much in just a few lessons. She listens to what you're looking for and provides you with exactly that. Highly recommend if you're looking for Irish lessons."

Patrick

"Miriam is a natural teacher. She took the time to learn the format of the TEG exam and knew very quickly which areas I needed to work on most. I would highly recommend!"