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Foreign Language Upskilling Courses for Primary Teachers

During 2025, hundreds of primary teachers have participated in foreign language upskilling courses, administered by PPLI in collaboration with a variety of providers and funded by the Department of Education and Youth. These courses have taken place across Ireland and abroad, throughout the year in collaboration with a variety of providers including Education Support Centres, Higher Education Institutions, cultural institutes, embassies and language schools.

Courses are currently offered in French, German, Italian, and Spanish and other languages will be available soon. The tuition is offered in a variety of formats including online, blended, and in-person, with durations ranging from 20 to 30 hours. 

Foreign Language Upskilling Courses for Primary Teachers 2026/27

Registration for foreign language upskilling courses for primary teachers 2026/27 will open in late June 2026, offering teachers a valuable opportunity to build their language skills and confidence for use in the classroom. 
 
Fully funded by the Department of Education and Youth and delivered by PPLI / Languages Connect, these courses are open to all qualified primary teachers registered with the Teaching Council of Ireland. 
 
Screenshot Courses Upskilling
These courses focus on practical communication skills and overall language development, supporting teachers in their preparation for the introduction of modern foreign languages in primary schools. Participants will benefit from a structured and supportive learning environment, expert tutors, and access to high-quality resources. 
 
Enrolment opens in late June 2026, with full details on course options, schedules, and the application process to be released closer to the time. 
 
Be sure to keep an eye out for further updates and don’t miss your chance to get involved in this exciting professional learning opportunity! 
 

Teachers interested in taking part are advised to:

  • Check this page regularly for updates.
  • Subscribe to our newsletter for notifications.
  • Follow our social media channels for the latest information.

For further information, please contact primaryupskilling@ppli.ie

Erasmus+ one-week job shadowing in a French Primary School

Thanks to recently acquired Erasmus+ accreditation, PPLI/Languages Connect will offer primary teachers and principals registered with the Teaching Council of Ireland a fantastic opportunity to conduct a funded, one-week observation of teaching practice in a primary school in the South of France.
This week of international mobility will take place in autumn 2026. Further information can be found here. Applications are now closed.

French language upskilling course and stay abroad

PPLI / Languages Connect, in partnership with the French Embassy, once again offered language upskilling grants for a one-week immersive course in France, with locations in Rouen, Bordeaux, and Vichy.

This unique opportunity was open to qualified primary teachers registered with the Teaching Council of Ireland and included a one-week intensive course with accommodation from 28th June to 4th July 2026, providing participants with a rich cultural and linguistic experience to enhance their confidence and fluency.

While applications for this round have now closed, the programme will run again in October 2026, with full details and application information to be released in August 2026.

Teachers interested in taking part are advised to:

  • Check this page regularly for updates.
  • Subscribe to our newsletter for notifications.
  • Follow our social media channels for the latest information.

For further information, please contact primaryupskilling@ppli.ie

Expression of Interest for Providers of Foreign Language Upskilling Courses

Upskilling courses from a variety of qualified course providers are being funded as part of the Foreign Language Upskilling Scheme. If you are not yet one of our partners but are interested in providing foreign language upskilling courses in 2025/2026, please read the Foreign Language Upskilling Information and Guidelines booklet available here.

The next call for expressions of interest will open in Autumn 2026.
For any queries, please email primaryupskilling@ppli.ie