About

Welcome to Atlantic School of English & Active Leisure — your English school on the magical Mizen Peninsula in Wonderful West Cork. Since 1999, we’ve been known for genuine trust, strong academic standards and a warm, personal approach that keeps students and partners returning year after year.Our founder, Barbara Connelly BA HDipEd, CELTA, DipTESOL , is a passionate educationist — an experienced teacher of English Language, Literature and History, and a highly qualified teacher-trainer. She has guided many English language teachers through their Trinity College London CertTESOL training, helping them become outstanding professionals, several of whom now teach with us here at Atlantic SEAL. Her expertise ensures that every learner benefits from programmes that are structured, inspiring and internationally recognised.What makes us truly special is our location. The stunning Wild Atlantic Way, and the magical Mizen Peninsula in particular, was chosen because it offers the perfect mix of English language learning and authentic Irish cultural immersion. Here, the landscape, the heritage, the sea and the local community all play a part in the learning experience. Students don’t just study English — they live it through activities, local traditions, outdoor adventures and daily life in our welcoming village.At Atlantic SEAL, you get the best of both worlds: high-quality teaching and unforgettable real-world experiences in one of the most breathtaking corners of Ireland.

Our Schools

The Atlantic School of English is comprised of 3 unique schools dedicated to Kids, Adults and Junior all within walking distance of each other.

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The Atlantic S.E.A.L. Experience

After a morning in the classroom students of all ages join their teachers for the seriously fun & unforgettable Afternoon Leisure Programme at our English Language School, in the beautiful Atlantic-side town of Schull, West Cork, Ireland. You won't believe what they see underwater!

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Who we Are

We believe expert tuition in small groups, combined with an exciting leisure programme that stimulates the mind and body, sets the tone for a successful and pleasurable learning experience. Our students build great confidence in using English thanks to the hands-on, relaxed approach of our teachers here in Schull. Students' progress isn't limited to just the classroom setting; they give more effective presentations, deal better with clients and counterparts on the phone & by email, and feel more confident communicating in English at work and socially following their experience here. Even shy students will enjoy the experience of living with a host family, as often there will be other people of a similar age group in the household where they stay. Our teachers accompany students on leisure outings, so new language is reinforced even while out having fun.

Our Atlantic English Team

Get to know the team behind the Atlantic School of English and Active Leisure before you arrive.
  • Barbara Connelly
  • Barbara Connelly
    Owner/Director

    Barbara and her partner Peter founded Atlantic SEAL in 1999 and is in charge of the overall management of the schools and related departments.

  • Dawn Evans
  • Dawn Evans
    Academic Programme Coordinator (Adult School)

    In charge of main academic administration and liaising with the adult school teaching staff.

  • Selene D'Alessandro
  • Selene D'Alessandro
    Chief Office Administrator & Host Family Coordinator

    In charge of the day to day administration of each school & suitable placement of students with host families.

  • Gearóid O'Sullivan
  • Gearóid O'Sullivan
    Administration Assistant & Logistics

    In charge of transport, other logistics & day to day organisation.

  • Jodi Thomas
  • Jodi Thomas
    Leisure Coordinator

    In charge of leisure programme design & staff management at Junior school.

  • Aisling O'Donnell
  • Aisling O'Donnell
    Director of Studies (Junior School)

    In charge of Academic management & teaching at the Junior school.

Popular English Language Courses

Our unique and tailor made English language programmes are designed for students aged 4 to 84 and beyond!
Adult English Programme
Adult English Programme
Junior Programme
Junior Programme
Young Kids’ English Summer Camp
Young Kids’ English Summer Camp

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We chose to have one centre, one location, and one strong ethos: offering a personal, authentic learning experience with the founders living just a short stroll away since 1999, providing a sense of security and care while inspiring growth and connecting students of all ages to the beauty of South West Cork, by the Wild Atlantic Way.