We were thrilled to welcome a group of talented trainees from Réunion Island to Dublin for 3-4 month internships: Clara, Sarah, Janice, Alicia, and Flora.

A Warm Welcome to Dublin

These professionals joined us as part of a Work Experience programme funded by Erasmus+. During their stay, they lived with friendly local host families and embraced Irish culture.

Their internships placed them in exciting roles across a variety of sectors: Administration, Customer Service, Hospitality, and Early Childhood Education.

Building Skills and Confidence

For Clara, her time in a Dublin hotel was her first-ever job, and she excelled in learning key hospitality skills. From taking drink orders and pouring pints to managing bar stock and preparing for special events like weddings and christenings, Clara gained invaluable experience.

Reflecting on her journey, Clara said, “Every problem has a solution,” and shared how she learned to stay calm and handle stressful situations with confidence.

A Journey for All Ages

Erasmus+ is a programme that welcomes people from all backgrounds, ages, and abilities, proving that learning and growth are lifelong opportunities. Janice, a 60-year-old trainee, and Sarah, 46, showed that it’s never too late to take on new challenges and pursue your passions.

Janice worked in a kindergarten, where she explored Ireland’s approach to Montessori education, gaining valuable insights and hands-on experience to bring back home. Sarah, on the other hand, joined a photography company, where she enhanced her administrative skills and learned about the creative industry in Dublin.

Both women embraced the experience and demonstrated how Erasmus+ can be a transformative opportunity for everyone, no matter their stage in life.

Living the Irish Life

The group stayed with individual host families, which gave each trainee a unique and positive experience. At first, they were a little nervous about the idea of staying with strangers, but they quickly embraced the opportunity and immersed themselves in Irish daily life.

Homestays helped them discover Irish traditions and culture. For instance, they noticed how much Irish people love potatoes—a stereotype they found to be true! The experience also helped them practice and improve their English.

One trainee shared, “The Irish are kind, smiling, and patient.”

Exploring Ireland’s Beauty

During their time in Ireland, the group had the chance to explore some incredible places:

• Glendalough, Howth, and Dundrum
• Galway
• The Cliffs of Moher
• Wicklow
• Northern Ireland, including Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway, and Game of Thrones filming locations

They also tasted Irish dishes like fish and chips, Irish stew, and even Irish coffee. One trainee remarked, “I enjoyed the landscapes because they are totally different from my home country.”

A Transformative Experience

Over the 13 weeks, the trainees overcame challenges like adapting to the Dublin accent, navigating a new transport system, and braving the unpredictable Irish weather.

In the end, they left with stronger English skills, valuable professional experience, and a boost in confidence that will serve them well in their careers.

One trainee reflected, “I feel proud to have been able to spend three months far away from my family and have the chance to just focus on myself.” Another added, “Thank you for this wonderful experience.”

We are incredibly proud of their achievements and are excited to see what they accomplish in the future! 🌟

For more information about Erasmus+ internships or projects in Ireland, please contact aine@foyle.eu

Foyle International, 34-35 Upper Mount Street, Dublin 2, +353 1 568 5968