Pre-course information meeting
Coláiste na bhFiann meets with every child and their parent /guardian prior to attending a course. The time spent at this stage is vital as it ensures that both parent and child are happy with their choice of course. Attendance at this session is a prerequisite to attending a course with Coláiste na bhFiann and must be attended by all for the full duration.
The key elements of the information evening are:
- Assessment of the child’s level of Irish. This is achieved through an informal chat with the child where a member of staff will ask them questions on their family, their school, their pastimes, etc. They are also asked to recite Amhrán na bhFiann.
- The facilitator will give a short talk highlighting important aspects of the course
- Both parent and child have an opportunity to discuss how the child got on with a member of staff on a one to one basis. Parents and children are encouraged to ask a member of staff any questions or voice any concerns they may have. Parents are asked at this stage to provide any personal, dietary, and/or medical issues that the child has so that the organisation is fully informed and can provide the best care possible to the child while they are on a course with us.
- A refund of deposit (minus a €20 administrative charge) will be available up to 7 days after the information meeting in the following circumstances:
- In the event that the assessor feels that the course would be too challenging for the student
- Should the parent decide for any reason not to continue with the application.