Learn and Practise English. Connect with your community.
Looking to improve your English and make new connections in your local community?
SECAD supports free, community-led English Conversation Clubs across East and Mid Cork, offering migrants, refugees and other learners a friendly, welcoming place to practise speaking English, build confidence and meet people locally.
These free English classes focus on practical, everyday conversation in a relaxed and supportive environment. Whether you’re new to Ireland or simply want to improve your English speaking skills, the clubs offer an opportunity to learn at your own pace while making new friends and becoming more connected to your local community.
The clubs are supported through SICAP and run by dedicated local volunteers, bringing people from different backgrounds together through language learning, cultural exchange and friendship.
Everyone is welcome, and new volunteer tutors are always encouraged to get involved.
More than English Lessons
Inspired by the community-based approach of the Fáilte Isteach initiative, SECAD-supported English Conversation Clubs bring people together through conversation.
Learners and volunteers share experiences, learn from one another and build friendships across cultures.
Improving spoken English can help people feel more confident in everyday situations, from shopping and attending appointments to finding employment, accessing local services and participating in community activities.
But the benefits go beyond language learning. These clubs help create welcoming spaces where people feel included, supported and connected to their communities.
Stronger English can make everyday conversations easier and help people take part in community life.
A warm welcome and the chance to connect can make that journey feel less daunting.
Free English Conversation Classes – For Learners
Practise English Speaking in a Friendly, Supportive Environment
Would you like to feel more confident speaking English?
Join one of our free English Conversation Clubs in Cork to practise everyday English in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
You don’t need to speak perfect English to take part. The sessions focus on conversation, helping you improve your speaking and listening skills while getting to know other people in your area.
At our English Conversation Clubs, you can:
- Practise speaking and listening in English through everyday conversations.
- Build confidence using English in daily life.
- Improve your communication skills at your own pace.
- Meet new people and make friends in your local community.
- Learn about Irish culture and share your own experiences.
- Attend free sessions supported by friendly local volunteers.
Find Free English Conversation Classes Near You
SECAD supports English Conversation Clubs in Carrigaline, Cobh, Macroom, Midleton and Youghal, providing opportunities to practise English across East and Mid Cork.
Find your nearest club and check the class times below.
| Location | Where? | When? |
| Carrigaline | Carrigaline Lions Youth Centre, Church Road, Carrigaline, P43 FR80 | Thursdays 11 am to 12 pm and 7 pm to 8 pm |
| Cobh | Cobh Family Resource Centre, Church Road, Cobh, P24 PP30 | Tuesdays 9.30 am to 10.30 am Thursdays 4.30 pm to 5.30 pm |
| Macroom | Macroom Pitch & Putt Club House, Macroom, Co. Cork, P12 DW95 | Tuesdays 7 pm to 9 pm Wednesdays 11 am to 12 pm |
| Midleton | Gaelscoil Midleton, Baneshane, Midleton, Co. Cork, P25 CH73 | Fridays 9.10 am to 11 am |
| Youghal | Youghal Library, Rivergate, Shopping Mall, North Main Street, Youghal, Co. Cork, P36 FF99 | Fridays 11 am to 12.30 pm |
Interested in joining an English Conversation Club?
Contact SECAD to find out more about the classes and how to get involved. We’ll be happy to help you connect with a club in your area.
Become a Volunteer English Tutor
Would you like to make a positive difference in your local community?
SECAD-supported English Conversation Clubs welcome volunteers who enjoy meeting people, sharing experiences and helping others improve their English speaking skills.
Whether you can offer a little time each week or would simply like to find out more, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact SECAD to learn more about volunteering opportunities at an English Conversation Club near you.
As a volunteer English conversation tutor, you’ll support learners in practising everyday English, building confidence and feeling more connected to life in Ireland.
You don’t need to be a qualified teacher or have previous teaching experience to volunteer. The Fáilte Isteach initiative provides training, learning materials and ongoing support to help volunteers get started.
Why Volunteer with an English Conversation Club?
Volunteering is a rewarding way to share your time, skills and knowledge while helping make your community more welcoming and inclusive.
As a volunteer, you can:
- Help learners improve their spoken English and communication skills.
- Support migrants and refugees in becoming more confident in everyday life.
- Share your knowledge of Irish culture and the local community.
- Meet people from different countries and cultural backgrounds.
- Build new friendships and connections.
- Contribute to a welcoming, inclusive and connected community.
- Attend networking events organised by SECAD
Every Conversation Helps Build a Stronger Community
Learning a language is about more than words. It’s about building confidence, creating opportunities and connecting with others.
Through free English Conversation Clubs, SECAD Partnership supports migrants, refugees and local volunteers in coming together, sharing experiences and building friendships.
One conversation at a time, we’re helping create more welcoming, connected and inclusive communities across Cork.
