Learning English at Dorset College is not just about lessons. Our social activities and wellbeing supports help you explore Dublin, practise English in real situations and feel at home while you study.
Join optional activities during the week to discover Dublin, meet classmates and make international friends.
Use English outside the classroom with other English speakers in natural settings.
Our Student Experience team are here to listen, guide and connect you with professional support if needed.
The programme changes through the year, but here is an example of the type of activities you might see. All activities are optional and shared with you during induction and via the Student Experience team.
City centre welcome walk – find key places (college, shops, bus stops) and get local tips.
Great for new arrivals and getting your bearings in Dublin.
Museum or gallery visit – explore Irish culture with short speaking tasks in pairs or small groups.
Practise describing what you see and sharing opinions in English.
Movie afternoon or informal social event after class.
Relax with classmates and learn everyday phrases from films or series.
Extra speaking focus – integrated into selected activities and optional 1‑to‑1 conversations (by request).
Ideal if you want targeted feedback on pronunciation or fluency.
End‑of‑week social activity or cultural visit (when available).
Celebrate your progress and share your plans for the weekend in English.
As part of your experience at Dorset College, you will have opportunities to join organised trips and discover more of Ireland. Here are some examples of places our students love to visit:
We use a dedicated WhatsApp channel to share information about upcoming social activities, trips and important updates for English language students.
Scan this QR code with your phone to follow the channel and receive notifications about what’s happening at Dorset College. You can also ask the Student Experience team to help you join if you are not sure how to scan the code.
Join our Conversation Club to practise English in a relaxed, social setting. You and other students meet with one of our experienced teachers to talk about a chosen topic for the session.
Conversation Club sessions are organised by the Academic Team and take place every Friday.
Dorset College has a range of activities across the campus. Many are designed for higher education students, but English language learners may be able to join or set up informal groups depending on interest and availability.
If you would like to join or start a group, please speak to the Student Experience team. All groups are arranged subject to student interest and timetable space.
Moving to a new country is exciting, but it can also feel challenging at times. We want you to feel safe, welcomed and supported while you study with us.
Our Student Experience staff are available to listen and help with non‑academic questions, such as:
If you are feeling low, stressed or worried, please talk to us. We can:
Speak to a member of our team about:
