Every Irish learner has their own unique journey. A journey shaped by curiosity and discovery. Sometimes it begins at school, sometimes abroad, and sometimes long after formal education has ended – often shaped by children or family members! Other times, it begins with a small decision: signing up for a course, opening a book, or using a word with confidence for the first time.

But there is usually one thing that all learners share: a desire to connect more deeply with the Irish language and its culture.

With Turas Teanga, we are celebrating the stories of our own learners. What inspired them to learn or relearn Irish, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the progress they’ve made along the way. This series offers an honest, personal insight into the experience of learning Irish with Gaelchultúr, both in Ireland and internationally.

Through this series, we are giving our learners a platform to share their stories, and perhaps inspire someone else to take their next step with Irish.

This is Turas Teanga!

Learner: Brendan Courtney

Tell us about yourself – what is your background and where are you currently based?

I am a TV presenter and designer. I currently live in Dublin city centre but I am moving to Wicklow soon.

What or who inspired you to learn (or re-learn) Irish?

I went to an Irish-speaking secondary school, but I lost my Irish after that.

What experience did you have with Irish before you started with Gaelchultúr?

Apart from the Irish I learned at school, I did a course for adults in the Gaeltacht last year. I realised then that I still have a lot to learn.

What made you choose Gaelchultúr as part of your language journey?

This is my fourth course with Gaelchultúr, it's so accessible and easy – there are no excuses.

What aspect of Gaelchultúr's courses has helped you the most to progress in your language journey?

The teachers were excellent and provided us with many opportunities to practise the Irish we were learning in conversation with each other.

Do you use Irish in your daily life now?

Without a doubt, I use Irish more in my daily life since I started learning with Gaelchultúr.

What impact did learning Irish with Gaelchultúr have on your confidence or your identity?

I am very proud to be Irish and have always wanted to relearn my native language.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about taking an Irish course, but isn't sure yet?

Gaelchultúr is certainly for you!

What was the biggest challenge you faced on this journey – and how did you overcome it?

Learning Irish requires commitment and curiosity - if you have those two things, you'll be fine.

How has the Irish language influenced your identity or your connection to Irish culture?

Irish is a poetic language that is very rich in history. There is so much to learn!

What are your Irish-language goals for the future?

To keep learning!