The Irish Experience is a program operated by Blyth Academy and travel agency, G/Hardy Tours Ltd. Blyth Academy is the leading network of private high schools in Canada.
The program was established in 1998 by Toronto teacher, Garry O’Sullivan, to provide Canadian students with the opportunity to experience Ireland in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere by hiking its beautiful countryside, exploring its old towns and cities and studying its rich history and celebrated literature. Students can also earn high school credits while participating in the program.
Since our founding, over 1,000 students have enjoyed the experience of a lifetime in our program.
Through structured, but relaxed, classroom instruction the students also have an opportunity to earn extra high-school credits. All the teachers are certified by the Ontario Ministry of Education and Training and the Ontario College of Teachers. The credits are awarded by Blyth Academy and are open to all Canadian students.
The credits are open to all students who have fulfilled the prerequisites. (please see Our Courses)
Our Priorities
- Student Safety. To this end, Irish Experience maintains a chaperone:student ratio of 1:10. All aspects of the program are planned with student safety and welfare in mind.
- A Memorable Experience. We provide the students with many varied activities and experiences (see itinerary)
- A Great Credit. Our maximum class size is 20. Our average class size is 17. All classes take place in classrooms on the campuses of universities in Cork and Dublin cities. The teachers stay in the same complex as students and are available after hours for extra tutoring. We have a fully qualified resource teacher to assist teachers with accommodations in delivery of the program. Our students have access to the internet at all locations.
Travel Arrangements
All travel arrangements for the Irish Experience are made through, G/Hardy Tours Ltd, 20 Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto M4R 1K8
G/Hardy Tours Ltd. is a premium travel company that specializes in educational travel for students and adults.
All payments made to G/Hardy Tours are protected by The Ontario Travel Industry Compensation Fund. TICO #2747543
For more information about G/Hardy tours, visit GHardytours.com
Contact Information
The Irish Experience Ltd.
4052 Black Willow Court
Mississauga, ON, L5C 3N3
Tel.: (905) 804-9402
For more information, please contact Garry O’Sullivan – Program Director.