A Tradition of Learning
The Skellig Coast has a long and proud history as a place of learning. From the early monastic scholars who made their home on Skellig Michael, to the thousands of students who travel here each year to learn English, this stretch of the Iveragh Peninsula has always welcomed those seeking knowledge.
Today the region is home to a remarkable collection of learning centres, research institutes, summer schools, and cultural festivals — each contributing to the vibrant intellectual life of the Skellig Coast.
Learning Centres & Hubs
Amergin Poetry Festival
A celebration of poetry and the written word, drawing on the rich literary heritage of the region.
Asana School of English
Welcoming students from around the world to learn English in an immersive coastal setting.
Cill Rialiag
A cultural and artistic retreat fostering creativity against the backdrop of the Atlantic.
Daniel O Connell Summer School
Held at Derrynane, exploring the life and legacy of the great Irish statesman.
Éigse na Brídeoige
A traditional Irish cultural festival celebrating music, song, and dance.
Kells Bay House & Gardens
A unique subtropical garden and historic house offering horticultural learning experiences.
SMARTlab
A research centre founded by Prof Goodman, where PhD students pursue advanced studies on the Skellig Coast.
Tech Amergin
A community education and arts centre serving the South Kerry region.
The Mitchell Scholarship
A prestigious scholarship programme connecting students with the Skellig Coast.
The O'Connell Centre
Located on Carhan Road, Cahersiveen, offering PLC courses in Tourism with Business at Level 5 and Level 6.
Learning Landscapes Symposium
A weekend of talks, walks, and workshops on outdoor education, place-based learning, and nature connection.
Sea Synergy
An educational centre focused on marine awareness and coastal ecology.
Research on the Skellig Coast
SMARTlab, under the leadership of founder Prof Goodman, has brought doctoral researchers to the Skellig Coast. PhD students including Dr. Anita McKeown, Vincent Hyland, Lucy Hunt, and Eleanor Turner have been associated with SMARTlab's work in the region, contributing to a growing body of research grounded in this unique coastal environment.