Partner with us to design your study abroad program
We have a long and proud track record of working with universities developing study abroad programs relating to the unique archaeological, natural and cultural heritage of Ireland. Our core expertise is developing programs in close partnership with local communities and university faculty, providing high-quality, immersive learning experiences.
Customised programs are typically two to three weeks in length but are tailor made to meet the individual teaching, research and logistical needs of your institution.
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The team
Dr Stephen Mandal
Dr Stephen (Steve) Mandal is a geo-archaeologist passionate about learning by doing. A co-owner of the Irish Heritage School, he brings energy and expertise to everything from stone use to medieval ruins, inspiring learners of all ages through tactile, community-focused, and engaging education.
Dr Denis Shine
Dr Denis Shine is an archaeologist and educator with a PhD in community-led archaeology. He has worked across Ireland and beyond since 2006, combining research, teaching, and public engagement. Denis aims to make archaeology meaningful, hands-on, and rooted in community stories.
Richard Reid
Richard Reid is an archaeologist, designer, and craftsman. With over two decades of excavation experience and creative flair, he brings technical and artistic skills to the Irish Heritage School. From supervising digs to building exhibits, Richard mixes precision with storytelling and practical magic.
What people say
“Indiana State University’s service-learning partnership with the IHS was a model of how service-learning should work. Our projects were planned in collaboration with a diverse group of community partners, the work was meaningful and well-designed, and the students were deeply immersed in the community. The balance of cultural and heritage programming with the service work was just right… it is one of the finest community partners we have worked with over the past decade. We look forward to continuing our partnership with them for years to come.”
Dr Nancy Rogers, Vice President for University Engagement and Dr Linda Maule, Dean of the University College, Indiana State University, IN (USA)
“As a faculty member I certainly have the knowledge, but I don’t have the connections they do, so being able to go to the nursing home it was above and beyond what I would have expected. One single student wanted exposure to dentistry, that was made to happen! Every single minor request was considered and accommodated”.
Dr Kielty Turner, Vice President for University Engagement, Marywood University, PA (USA)
“We had such a great time working with the Irish Heritage School both virtually and on-site in Birr. Denis and Steve were able to accommodate all of our requests ahead of arrival and both our faculty/staff leaders and students enjoyed having Mairead joining us on our excursions throughout the week. As a performing arts-based program we were impressed to see the extent of the HIS’s network across Ireland. We were able to visit all of our “dream” locations (including a fiddle maker’s workshop) as well as some big tourist destinations like the Cliffs of Moher. I think a big highlight of the program for our students was the homestays. We had first time travellers in our group, and I think the homestays and small-town feel of Birr helped them feel more at home. I would recommend the Irish Heritage School to anyone looking for a faculty-led program in Ireland.”
Emily Dougherty, Education Abroad Advisor, University of North Dakota, ND (USA)
Who we work with
What to expect
When you partner with the Irish Heritage School, you will receive
- An inclusive, partnership approach
- Bespoke planning drawing on unrivalled knowledge and understanding of Ireland’s natural, built and cultural heritage
- Programs that serve the needs of the community and faculty partners
- Dedicated academic leaders that combine knowledge, enthusiasm and affability
- Marketing, administration and application assistance
- Pre-departure advice
- Airport transfers
- Homestay accommodation and all meals
- Field trips, workshops and lectures
- In-country orientation and welcome event
- 24/7 in-country support team