The Irish Department in Thornhill College is a thriving and highly successful Modern Language Department.  The study of Irish is offered to all students from Years 8-14 through an inter-active, stimulating and challenging programme of language, literature and culture.  Formal learning is complemented by a range of extra-curricular activities which promote the enjoyment and application of the language.  Pupils are entered for Feiseanna, quizzes, debates and Gaeltacht scholarship competitions on a regular basis and it is the Department’s aim to encourage students to develop a love for and pride in the culture and language.  Students are also encouraged to use Irish as a means of communication as often as possible and to visit the Gaeltacht.

The number of pupils studying the language in Thornhill right up to Year 14 is significant.  At present 130 pupils study Irish for GCSE and 40 pupils study the language at AS and A2 level.

There are 3 full-time teachers of Irish in a well resourced and highly motivated department.