

Macdara is a fluent Irish speaker who grew up in an all-Irish-speaking household in AnSpidéal, Co. na Gaillimhe, in the heart of the Conamara Gaeltacht, where Irish is spokendaily.
He graduated from the National University of Ireland, Galway, with a Master’s degreeMáistir Gairmiúil san Oideachas (Master’s in Education).
Macdara has worked as a full-time teacher and has extensive experience in preparing studentsfor State examinations, having taught in a variety of educational settings.
Due to the rapid growth of the Academy, he has now dedicated himself to it full-time,alongside an excellent team of teachers who are passionate about Irish. We have recruitedsome of the best teachers in the county to work with the Academy

We have helped over 100 students achieve success with their Irish Junior Cert examinations.


At Cliste, we help students build fluency, boost exam confidence, and rediscover their love for Irish. Parents and students agree — our system works.
Our tutors are fluent, qualified Irish speakers with years of experience helping students master the language — from basics to top-grade prep.
We meet each student where they’re at, providing individual feedback, structured lessons, and extra help when it’s needed most.
One clear price. No surprises. We believe in total transparency so families know exactly what they’re getting.
From oral fluency to grammar confidence, we monitor growth and keep parents in the loop every step of the way.
Our lessons and notes are built around the Junior and Leaving Cert exams — with no filler, just what matters.
Getting started is simple. Enroll in just a few clicks and join a supportive, high-achieving Irish learning community.



