What age range do you cover?
We accept students from above 5 years to 17+, usually grouped around three age ranges. Check the academy profile that is closest to you for specific details. Some Academies run specific classes for preschool children.
What times are the classes?
- Most classes are held within the hours of 4.00 to 7.00pm with the younger groupings attending first.
- Each class lasts one hour
How much do lessons cost?
Fees are paid by Term, in advance. The Term fee per student for 2017 €200.00. Family discounts apply for two or more students attending.
Are your teachers qualified?
All teachers in the Academy have relevant qualifications and receive training and ongoing professional development.
Do you offer free trials?
Our continuing experience is that more than one attendance is necessary to assess whether the Helen O’Grady environment works for your child.
We organise regular ‘taster’ sessions and also may offer special workshops at holiday times to introduce potential new students to the benefits of the Helen O’Grady environment.
Do you have a structured curriculum?
Yes we do. As our focus and passion is to provide a lasting educational experience generally and in the performing arts. The curriculum is structure on an annual basis and cycled to provide a potential for young people to attend for more than 10 years.
We follow the School Year and Terms. We break our programme into three terms. At the end of the third Term a short scripted ensemble production is held in a performing Arts venue.
Are your classes open to all?
The Helen O’Grady environment provides social and emotional learning for our students, to better prepare them for the challenges of school and life in general. However, the structured and equal value environment requires full participation by each student. Although we make every effort to meet individual requirements, the environment my not suit every individual. If you have a child with special needs please speak with us about a trial period.
Are we able to join a class mid-term or mid-year?
In most cases, young people can join in during the Term or part way through the year. Let us know and we will be pleased to work with you to find the best option for your particular circumstances.
Do you have a system of awards?
We provide a non-competitive environment, where each student is able to develop at their own pace.
- We do recognise commitment in the form of certificates for completing each Academy year.
- We do recognise milestones in attendance with individually named keepsakes.
- In certain circumstances Academies may provide recognition of a particular development activity.
Do you have classes during the school holidays?
We will. At some point. But not for this season 2017/2018.
