STEM Project

2025 STEM community of practice

Back to School STEM - Thursday 11th Sept at 5pm

Maths Week Ideas - Thursday 18th Sept at 5pm

Halloween STEM - Thursday 16th Oct at 5pm

Christmas STEM - Thursday 20th Nov at 5pm

Cross Sectoral STEM Programme involving Primary, Post Primary & Third Level organisations

On May 27th Wexford Education Support Centre was delighted to see this innovative programme involving a number of Science Teachers from Gorey Community School & Maynooth University who provided a variety of STEM Workshops to various local Primary Schools.

The six workshops offered a rich and engaging introduction to key areas in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Each session was thoughtfully designed to stimulate curiosity and hands-on learning. From chemistry—examining the importance of pH in everything from skincare to seed planting—to physics, where students explored density and discovered why submarines float, the experience was both educational and inspiring.

The mathematics workshop brought abstract concepts to life, demonstrating in a fun and interactive way that maths is all around us. In biology, students explored how plants convert sunlight into energy through chromatography—a creative and insightful activity. The technology session, where students built their own torches, offered a brilliant and practical way to understand light and circuits. And the LEGO STEM City from Maynooth University was wonderful way to embrace sustainability.

I would particularly like to thank Gráinne Mulcahy and Deirdre Byrne for their excellent organisation and coordination of this innovative event and all the teachers involved for delivering such high-quality, engaging workshops. This was a fantastic way to help Sixth Class students to get to know their new Post Primary school while engaging in a fun activity.

These workshops have not only enriched the students’ understanding of STEM but have also helped build excitement and confidence as they prepare for this important next step in their education.

science -technology - Engineering - math (stem)

stem outreach

STEM CLUB - Celebrating Summer and Biodiversity Week - Practical Ideas and Resources

summer stem 1

photo 2023 04 20 19 49 41 1

photo 2023 04 20 19 49 41 photo 2023 04 20 19 49 40 2

A New Approach to STEM Education - The Dream Space Digital Academy

easter stem 1

photo 2023 04 20 19 47 05 4 photo 2023 04 20 19 47 05 3

photo 2023 04 20 19 47 05 2

photo 2023 04 20 19 47 05 1 photo 2023 04 20 19 49 40

"Driving Home For Christmas"

copy of christmas stem 3

About the Project:
This project is run in partnership with the Institute of Education, DCU, Drumcondra and The Irish American Partnership (IAP). The project was established with the aim to make the benefits of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in primary science more widely available to primary school teachers in schools in Co
Wexford. We know children display a clear eagerness to engage with STEM subjects early on and access to high-quality learning experiences ensures this spark
and curiosity remains. The support of the IAP ensures that teachers get ongoing support and resources to effectively lay the groundwork for critical thinking and
problem-based learning.

Integrating STEM into Renewable Energy Projects:
The project integrated design thinking into STEM lessons to enhance creative problem-solving skills and promote students’ ability to innovate, collaborate and engage in critical thinking. The programme and design challenges are ideal for any classroom and engage students in real-world learning through practical
hands-on activities. The aim of this project is to improve teachers' understanding of STEM concepts and renewable energy technology with increased energy literacy. The project-based learning approach increased students’ STEM content knowledge but also transversal STEM skills such as creativity, critical thinking and collaboration.
When teachers have access to the correct educational tools and engaging classroom activities they can bring energy topics to life for their students while preparing them for the jobs and challenges of the 21st century. Unfortunately, these tools are often expensive and difficult to find and can be perceived as for educators to efficiently integrate into existing curricula. This project provides the opportunity to offer teachers ongoing support and training and also the resources to implement hands-on learning experiences.

Session 1:
Online CPD and introduction to integrated STEM method:
Date: Tuesday, May 10th 2022
Time: 4-5.30 pm
1. St Iberius NS Sarah Meyler
2. Castledockrell NS Deirdre Ryan
3. Rathnure NS Sinead Doyle
4. Scoil Moling-Glynn Caitríona Kelly
5. Gorey Central School Lynne Copeland
6. Scoil Naomh Abbain Claire Kickham
7. Kilmyshall National School Graham Finnerty
8. Carysfort NS Rebecca Ivanoff
9. Scoil Íosagáin Coolgreany Lorcan Browne
10. St. Enda's National School Seamus Dempsey
11. St John of God Rose-Marie O'Loughlin
Session 2:
Co-teaching visit:
In-class support for the class teacher
Direct Student Engagement: 313
Number of schools: 10
Number of teachers: 13
School Visits:

Engaging Learners:
The programme workshops and lessons tested a variety of engaging, active, and student-centred teaching methods. Methodologies including experiential, inquiry-based, and small group design thinking approached all proved to be effective. Discussions and conversations among learners were used to help them think
more deeply about concepts, compare perceptions, understand different opinions, and reflect on what they know.

Scientific Thinking:
Learners actively participate in scientific inquiry and STEM workshops, leading to an increased understanding of science and how it impacts our daily lives. Emphasis was placed on energy labs and understanding energy concepts and increased energy literacy. The Renewable Tech Lab allowed teachers and students to creatively explore the science, technology and real-world application of a future powered by renewable energy. We used engineering design skills, investigated practical real-world applications of science, worked collaboratively and had fun at the same time!

Outcomes:
Outcomes were measured through observation and feedback (informal) interviews and feedback from teachers, students and course facilitators.
• Renewable energy projects enhanced students' achievement of STEM knowledge and generate
meaningful learning.
• The project-based approach increased students' STEM skills and working scientifically
• Increased understanding of science concepts with real-world application

Next Steps:
Helping teachers integrate Energy Literacy and Renewable Tech across existing curricula:
• Easy access to the content and teaching materials,
• Aligned to curriculum and learning outcomes expected
• sustained support and ongoing CPD

stem outreach pics

Figure 1: Hands of investigation into Renewable Energy. A selection of schools across Wexford

outreach 2 pic

Figure 2: Renewable Energy STEM project

Date	Time	Number of students	Teacher and Class Group	School Details Address/contact number
18/05/22	1.30-3	33	Deirdre Byrne Deputy Principal Ms. Leanne Hore 4th/5th class	Rathnure NS Rathnure Enniscorthy Co. Wexford Y21V228
19/05/22	10-12.30	28	Graham Finnerty 5th/6th Class	Kilmyshall NS Kilmyshall Bunclody Enniscorthy Co. Wexford
20/05/22	9.30 -11 11.30-1	28 26	`Denise Davitt 6th class teacher Donna Hayden 5th class teacher	Ballycanew NS Gorey Wexford
23/05/22	10-12.30	28	Caroline Delaney 2nd, 3rd and 4th Class	St Iberius NS Davitt Road South Wexford Town Y35N970
24/05/22	9.30-11	24	Rita Conroy Class 5th Class	St John of God School The Faythe Wexford. 053 9123105
25/05/22	9.30-11.30	28	3rd, 5th,6th class Gorey Central 3rd Class Lynne Copeland	Gorey Central School Charlette Row Gorey Co Wexford

1.3-3

Deirdre Ryan

Teaching principal

Castledockrell NS Ballycarney Enniscorthy

Co. Wexford Y21N968

26/05/22

10-11.30

1.30-3

30 26

Linda Byrne Class teacher

Claire Kickham

Íosagáin, Gorey,

Co. Wexford. Y25 AN29

5th and 6th class

Adamstown, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford. Y21 VY56

27/05/22

30-6-22

10-12

1-2.30

Rebecca Ivanoff

3rd Class teacher

5th class teacher Mr. Sean Dunk

AM: Carysfort NS Aíklow Co. Wicklow

Y14XE30

Goíey Centíal School

photo 2023 04 20 19 47 05 1 photo 2023 04 20 19 49 40

stem club maths 1

These workshops explore a range of resources that can be used to effectively develop active pupil learning in the area of STEM. They are intended to support teachers in facilitating learning in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math in the primary setting. Each webinar shares practical ideas and learning experiences to support teachers in school. The workshops coincide with national STEM weeks such as Maths Week, Science Week, Engineers Week, Code Week & Space Week.

At the end of the 6 workshops participants will have experienced:

Hands-on STEM activities using a range of technologies.
A clear understanding about the benefits of STEM and its use in education
Comprehensive curriculum-linked resources supporting the implementation of STEM within your teaching practice during national STEM weeks.

Scríobh Leabhar

Scríobh Leabhar

Scríobh Leabhar 2025/2026

Scríobh Leabhar is a project sponsored by Clár na Leabhar Gaeilge. The project is organised in partnership with various education centres throughout Ireland. Scríobh Leabhar provides primary school students with the opportunity to write, design and publish their own books in Irish. It promotes the reading and writing of Irish amongst young children.

The children write, design and bind their own books under the direction of their teachers. The main focus of the project is the writing process itself. The project is very flexible, each child in the class can write their own book, or work together in groups, or the entire class can write a book.

We're excited to be back running Scríobh Leabhar in 2025/2026! If you're interested in getting involved, we'd love to hear from you — just fill out our registration of interest form below.

Statement from Scriobh Leabhar re 2024/2025

ÁIS & Clár na Leabhar Gaeilge would like to thank you all for taking part in Scríobh Leabhar 2023-2024. They hope to have the books uploaded to the website and returned to you by the end of next month: www.forasnagaeilge.ie/scriobhleabhar/

Unfortunately, Clár na Leabhar Gaeilge will not have the capacity to run Scríobh Leabhar 2024-2025 due to staff shortages at present. We hope to advertise Scríobh Leabhar for the following academic year 2025-2026. We will keep you updated.

We look forward to working with you all again in 2025!

Ba mhaith liom mo bhuíochas a ghabháil libh go léir as bheith rannpháirteach sa tionscadal Scríobh Leabhar 2023-2024. Beimid ag súil leis na leabhair a bheith in airde ar an suíomh gréasáin agus seolta ar ais chugaibh faoi dheireadh na míosa seo chugainn: www.forasnagaeilge.ie/scriobhleabhar/

Ar an drochuair, ní bheidh sé d’acmhainn ag Clár na Leabhar Gaeilge Scríobh Leabhar 2024-2025 a reáchtáil de dheasca easpa acmhainní foirne i láthair na huaire. Beimid ag súil le Scríobh Leabhar a fhógairt arís don scoilbhliain 2025-2026. Coinneoimid ar an eolas sibh.

Beimid ag súil go mór le bheith ag comhoibriú libh sa bhliain 2025!

***

Scríobh Leabhar is a commendable initiative sponsored by Clár na Leabhar Gaeilge and organized in collaboration with various educational centres across Ireland. This project is designed to inspire primary school students to engage in the writing, designing, and publishing of their own books in the Irish language, thereby promoting the reading and writing of Irish among young children.

Project Objectives

The primary objectives of the Scríobh Leabhar project include:

Encouraging creativity and literacy in Irish among primary school students.
Providing students with a practical understanding of the book creation process.
Offering a flexible approach to book writing where students can write individually, in groups, or as a whole class.
Rewarding and recognizing the efforts of young writers.

Project Execution

Under the guidance of their teachers, the children write, design, and bind their own books. The focus is on the writing process itself, fostering a deep engagement with the Irish language and creative storytelling. The project’s flexibility allows each child to contribute in a manner that suits their skills and interests, either individually or collaboratively.

Participation and Outcomes

In 2024, the project saw significant participation with six primary schools involved:

Tara Hill
Our Lady of Lourdes, Bunclody
Scoil Mhuire Gan Smál
Scoile Mhuire Rosslare
Hacketstown NS
Bigstone NS

Over 500 children took part in the project, resulting in the creation of 249 books. Each child who participated in Scríobh Leabhar received a certificate and a prize, celebrating their hard work and creativity.

Acknowledgments

Congratulations to all the schools, teachers, and especially the young authors who participated in the Scríobh Leabhar project in 2024. Your dedication and creativity are truly inspiring.

Future Prospects

We look forward to seeing these wonderful books published on the Foras na Gaeilge website in September, showcasing the talents and efforts of the students. This project not only enriches the participants but also contributes significantly to the promotion and preservation of the Irish language.

Please see a small selection of books submitted this year below.

Scoil Mhuire Gan Smal, 3^rd Class Book

A small selection of books submitted this year from various schools.

Tara Hill, 5^th Class Winner

h 2

h 3

Hacketstown NS, 5^th Class Winner

lourdes

Our Lady of Lourdes School Pupils Receiving their Certificates

screenshot 2024 06 12 121518

Scoil Mhuire Gan Smal Pupils Receiving their Certificates

This year we are delighted to have 6 schools involved with nearly 550 students taking part. They are:

Name of School

Tara Hill, Gorey

Bigstone NS

Hacketstown NS

Scoil Mhuire Rosslare

Scoil Mhuire Gan Smál

Our Lady of Lourdes, Bunclody

Scríobh Leabhar 2022/2023

This year we are delighted to have 5 schools involved. They are:

St. Anne’s N.S., Rathangan

Ms. Mary Kehoe’s 2^nd Class

Ms. Áine Kennedy’s 6^th Class

Scoil Mhuire Muigheo N.S.

Ms. Clare McCarthy’s 3^rd Class

Our Lady of Lourdes N.S., Bunclody

Ms. Edel Jordan’s 4^th Class

Carysfort N.S.

Ms. Heather Minion’s Whole School

St. Mary’s, Boys and Girls N.S.

Mr. Connor Sutton’s 6^th Class

We have a total of 354 pupils involved in the project this year. We are all looking forward to our upcoming presentation day, date to be announced shortly. Foras na Gaeilge have sponsored some beautiful gifts for the pupils involved so all the young authors are very much looking forward to receiving them.

Scríobh Leabhar 2021/2022

This year we are delighted to have 7 schools involved. They are:

Davidstown N.S., Davidstown, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford.
Gaelscoil an Inbhir Mhóir, Bóthar Emoclew, An tInbhear Mór, Co. Chill Mhantáin.
St. Brendan's N.S., Drummond, St. Mullins, Co. Carlow,
Scoil Eoin Baiste, Galbally, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford,
St. Kevin's N.S., Tara Hill, Gorey, Co. Wexford.
St. Mary’s NS, Coolfancy, Co. Wicklow.
Scoil Naomh Una, Shielbaggan, New Ross, Co. Wexford.

Active School Flag

20250825 webinar graphics png4 4

Webinar Title: Active School Flag: Partnerships & Supports

Who?

This webinar is open to ALL primary and special schools.

It is strongly recommended for schools (new and renewal) working towards ASF during 25/26.

Where possible, we encourage more than one member of staff to attend.

What?

The following topics will be discussed:

Oide Primary PE
Pupil Voice
Working with Parents
Community Links
Inclusion Support Agencies

Book Your Place

Tuesday, November 4th (3-4pm) Book HERE

Wednesday, November 5th (7-8 pm) Book HERE

______________________________________________

Participation Initiatives

ALL Schools

Save the Dates In 2025/26, we are going to schedule one major Active School Participation Initiative, per term.

Please share these dates with colleagues and include in your annual school calendar.

Walkway Learning Charts

ALL Schools

Every month we are going to release sets of Walkway Learning Charts, supporting teachers and schools to find ways to integrate physical activity with learning.

Each set includes 14 charts, designed for display along the 14 Active School Walkway signs.

If you don’t have a signposted Walkway, we encourage you laminate the charts for display around your school premises.

NEW resources released at the start of every month

https://activeschoolflag.ie/walkway-learning-charts/

Wexford statistics for the Active School Flag project.

'Active Break Every Day' Challenge (November 18 - December 13)

About
The Active Break Every Day challenge is open to ALL primary and special schools.

The initiative is designed to incentivise and support teachers to build movement breaks in to their daily routines for the benefit of teaching and learning, as well as health and wellbeing.

For the 2024 Active Break Every Day challenge, we are delighted to partner with the Irish Heart Foundation to support teachers to build movement and mindfulness breaks into the school day.
Find Out More

Registration

Schools that REGISTER will gain access to a wide range of school-friendly movement break resources, including interactive games, guided breathing exercises and short videos, with activities suitable for all ages and all abilities.

Challenge Support Webinars (06.11.24) Webinar graphic attached
These short (30-minutes) information webinars are for teachers and schools that may not have previously engaged with the 'Active Break Every Day' challenge but everyone is very welcome to attend.

Option 1: Wednesday, November 6 (3-3.30 pm)
Option 2: Wednesday, November 6 (7-7.30 pm)
Book My Place

Participation Awards
Schools that register, participate and showcase their engagement with this 4-week challenge will be entered in to a draw where they could win a climbing wall.

Registrations for the ASF Application system for the 24/25 academic year will open at the beginning of October.

Wexford Schools

active school wexford

2024/2025

See below the schools awarded flags from September to date.

14254K	Danescastle National School
16023B	Rathgarogue N S
16145P	Bunscoil Loreto
16841m	Scoil Nmh Brighde
18280I	St Joseph's Primary School

2023/2024

Danecastle NS, Carrig on Bannow, Co Wexford (2nd Flag)

2022/2023

St Marys NS, Ballygarrett, Gorey, Co Wexford (2nd Flag)

Scoil Mhuire, Bearlough, Rosslare Strand, Co Wexford (3rd Flag)

Tara Hill NS, Tara Hill, Gorey, Co Wexford (3rd Flag)

S N Rath An Iubhair, Rathnure, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford (2nd Flag)

Courtnacuddy NS, Courtnacuddy, Co Wexford (2nd Flag)

Carrigduff N.S., Bunclody, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford

New Ross Educate Together National School, Barrett’s Park, New Ross, Co Wexford

St Aidan’s NS, Clonroche, Clonroche, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford

St. Patrick’s NS, Crossabeg, Sion, Crossabeg, Co Wexford

Kilnamanagh CNS, Oulart, Gorey, Co Wexford

St Iberius NS, Davitt Road South, Co Wexford (2nd Flag)

2021/2022

Castledockrell NS, Ballycarney, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford (2nd Flag)

CBS Primary Wexford, Green Street, Slippery Green, Wexford

Gaelscoil Moshiolog, An Chraobhach, Bthr. Charn an Bhua, Guaire, Loch Garman

Marshalstown NS, Marshalstown, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford

Riverchapel NS, Riverchapel, Gorey, Co Wexford (2nd Flag)

Scoil Ghormáin Naofa, Castletown, Gorey, Co Wexford (3rd Flag)

Scoil Mhuire, Coolcotts, Co Wexford

SN Cill Damhain, Cill Damhain, Inis Corthaigh, Co Loch Gorman (3rd Flag)

SN Olibheir Beannuithe, Duncannon, Co Wexford

SN Realta Na Mara, An Chill Mhor, Co Loch Garman (2nd Flag)

SF remains valid for a period of 3 years. Schools awarded with the flag in 2020/2021 are invited to re-engage with the initiative during 2023/2024 to maintain their ASF status.

Active School Flag - Run around Europe Challenge

Run Around Europe Challenge

‘Run Around Europe’ is a whole-school running challenge open to all primary and special schools. The initiative focuses on participation, inclusion and fun with lots of learning opportunities along the way. All classes, at all class levels are challenged to build a ‘Run a Day’ in to their daily routines across the 4 weeks of the challenge. Working together as a class, and as a school, your combined km will bring you to many of the capital cities across Europe. See full details here.

run around europe challenge 1 page 0001

Register for #RunAroundEurope Challenge Link: ‘RUN Around EUROPE’ Registration | Active School Flag

Booking for webinar link: Run Around Europe (2024) | Active School Flag

________________________________________________________

Dear Colleagues,

The Active School Flag Programme is a Department of Education 'Physical Activity for Wellbeing' Initiative in partnership with the Education Support Centres of Ireland and Healthy Ireland. The Programme seeks to embed a culture of physical activity in schools using fun and innovative strategies, and drawing on the unique settings and cultures of the participating schools. The evidence shows that the benefits of participating in this programme for whole school communities extend far beyond the physical into mental health, school morale - both for staff and students-, student voice, student leadership, behaviour, punctuality and attendance.

Please note the Active School Flag Programme is a whole of school initiative. Schools that engage with the process will be supported by a series of online webinars, held at regular intervals throughout the school year. Schools that attend the webinars will receive a range of practical resources to support their work.

To find out more, ask questions and listen to practicing teachers' experiences of participating in the Active School Flag programme, click here to register for a one-hour information webinar.

Is your school ready?

The process incentivises schools to engage in a process of self-reflection, action planning and collaboration at whole school level.

Sitting in front of every teacher, every day, are children and young people that DO NOT meet the recommended daily physical activity level target of 60 minutes.

ASF is an ambitious whole school process. In order to succeed, and to ensure that the benefits of ASF reach into every classroom, it is important that management and staff commit to supporting, promoting and actively engaging with the process.

ASF encourages schools to strengthen their PE programmes and to promote physical literacy.

A broad and balanced PE programme is essential, at all class levels, to ensure that students have the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes that they require to live physically active lives.

October Webinars 2022

ASF October Webinars Flyer page 0001

Please see the links below

https://activeschoolflag.ie/events/find-out-more-webinar-19-09-22-7pm/

Find out more webinar 19th Sept at 7 PM

https://activeschoolflag.ie/events/find-out-more-webinar-20-09-22-3-45pm/

Find out more webinar 20th Sept at 3:45 PM

https://activeschoolflag.ie/events/getting-started-small-schools-webinar/

Getting started webinars October 2022

Schools apply directly to ASF online if they wish to participate in the programme.

To Register Please Click

Active School Flag

Will YOUR school be the first school to achieve ASF in your county during 2022/2023?

Local Schools who took part in 2021/2022

Castledockrell NS, Ballycarney, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford (2nd Flag)

CBS Primary Wexford, Green Street, Slippery Green, Wexford

Gaelscoil Moshiolog, An Chraobhach, Bthr. Charn an Bhua, Guaire, Loch Garman

Marshalstown NS, Marshalstown, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford

Riverchapel NS, Riverchapel, Gorey, Co Wexford (2nd Flag)

Scoil Ghormáin Naofa, Castletown, Gorey, Co Wexford (3rd Flag)

Scoil Mhuire, Coolcotts, Co Wexford

SN Cill Damhain, Cill Damhain, Inis Corthaigh, Co Loch Gorman (3rd Flag)

SN Olibheir Beannuithe, Duncannon, Co Wexford

SN Realta Na Mara, An Chill Mhor, Co Loch Garman (2nd Flag)

20210907 ASF FOM Workshop Twitter Graphic

An Active School Flag Programme - ONE HOUR - Information Webinar

"Find Out More"

takes place ON Tuesday, 28th September at 3.45 p.m.

If you are interested in attending this information session please Register here

Active School Flag Programme

The Active School Flag Programme is a modern, fun and engaging programme with research (by D.C.U.) showing long term benefits for the whole school community including:

More physically active school community (including teachers).
improved concentration and focus for students in class.
improved school atmosphere & pupil-teacher relationships.
improved attendance and behaviour in school.

All primary schools, using the School Self-Evaluation (SSE) process, are required to review one area of Wellbeing by 2023.

The Active School Flag Programme is a Whole of School initiative which embeds 'being physically active' into the ethos of the school. It aligns with both 'The Wellbeing Framework' and the 'School Self-Evaluation' (SSE) process and can be used to help schools fulfil their commitments in this regard.

Currently there are 630 schools nationally with Active School Flag status, with 21 of these in Co. Wexford.

Applications for interested primary schools will open on Friday, 1st October at www.activeschoolflag.ie.

Please note to register for the "Find Out More" information session or to register for the Active Flag Programme you will be registering on the links provided above and not on Wexford Education support Centre's website.

Bringing Live Arts to Students and Teachers (BLAST) Arts in Education Residencies

The aim of the Blast Project is to provide students in primary and post-primary schools across the country with the opportunity to collaborate with professional artists on unique, creative projects. These projects are planned and developed jointly by the artist, the teacher, and the school, ensuring that each experience is tailored and designed to fit the school’s particular needs.

Bringing Live Arts to Students and Teachers

The Department of Education and Youth is pleased to announce BLAST Creativity and Arts in Education Residency 2026/2027 applications are now open

BLAST Creativity & Arts in Education Residency 2026/2027 apply online https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=YFK3hvCbGE2nlK37UAGLvJAzhLS8-ZNJq_oU7i6EdXtUNFdVMFJQTkszVDBMVkRJSFFBRFRQT09NVS4u&route=shorturl

The closing date for receipt of applications is 20^th April 2026.

Please contact National Arts in Education, Tralee Education Support Centre for queries or support, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Eligibility:

All schools in receipt of capitation grants from the Department of Education and Youth or Education and Training Boards (ETBs) can apply for BLAST.
Schools participating in Creative Clusters, Creative Schools, Creative Connections, I am Creative or TAP+ can apply for BLAST.
Fee Paying Schools are not eligible to apply for BLAST Residencies. Schools that are not in the free-education scheme cannot apply for BLAST.

BLAST is an initiative of the Department of Education and Youth, under the Creative Youth Plan 2023-2027. It is led by and in partnership with the 21 full-time Education Centres Ireland.

BLAST 2026/27 Application Form

Wexford BLAST Register of Artists and Creative Practitioners
Sheila Forsey	Creative writing skills, Local History story telling, Literature, Playwriting, embracing heritage into storytelling	www.joeceol.ie
Trish Middleton	Visual Artist working mainly with textiles	www.trishmiddleton.art
Brendan Fahy	Circus and juggling workshops for all ages	www.jugglerbrendan.com/teaching
Therese Dalton	Creating short films throuhg scriptwriting, acting,filming nad recording sound with a screening at the end.	www.youtube.com/wexfordyouthfilm
Oenone( Nonie)Stafford	Calligraphy, hand-lettering, mural art, illustration: bringing language to life and creating visual narratives using traditional and contempory techniques	www.blossominkstudio.com
Caroline Bergin	Visual Artist	www.carolineberginart.com
Anne Manning	Clay building and sculptural technique. Paint/collage/found objects creating form within 2D/3D realm. Creating 3D/2D self expression and sustainable experiences	www.facebook.com/annemanningartist/
Elke Williams	Trained Art teacher and ceramic Artist. Ceramics ,Sculpture and Mosiac. Harvesting and processing of wild clay for site specific use.	https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wP6S26fT5pbghftJnZJtbUv5IKjX2jr9/view?usp=share_link
Karen Dempsey	Specialising in painting large scale murals and printmakingusing the creative process to foster inclusivity and freedom of expression	@kazartwex.instagram.com
Lynn Haughton	Reimagining ‘waste materials’ Mostly focusing on Fast Fashion, textiles and plastics. Creative thinking and materials exploration. Experimentation, process and fun focused. Creating textile artworks while learning new skills to do with fabric, fibre and discovering creative possibilities in textile ‘waste’	www.theupcyclemovement.com https://www.instagram.com/lynn_haughton_/
Mirona Mara	Drawing and illustration Ceramic and Clay work stop motion animation/video	www.mironamara.com
Helen Flanagan	Filmmaking: Using Storytelling, drama, camera and editing skills to create narrative films. Radio Making and multidisciplinary Arts includine Zine making	www.helenflanaganfilm.com
John Busher	Painting,Drawing,Printmaking,Ceramics/sculpture ,Installation	johnbusher.ie
Sheena Furlong	I am a visual artist working from my own studio in Kilmuckridge.I work on my own projects and commissions and also teach both adults and children within the studio. This includes holding an annual exhibition for the student.I exhibit both locally in Wexford and in the studio.
Joe Brennan	Traditional Storyteller: developing storytelling skills and growing confidence to tell to an audience, with the help of storyboards, drama and props.	www.taletradition.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rk5EGbcM-bE&t=138s
Peter McCamley	Theatre and Music. Storytelling through drama, music, fi lm. Songwriting.	https://adpersonam-hub.github.io/peter-mccamley-portfolio/ https://adpersonam-hub.github.io/ad-personam/
Becci Whelan	Dance Movement and Meditation	https://www.youtube.com/@2manydancemoves203

List of School Pairings 2025/2026

Artist Name	School Name	Roll No .
Becci Whelan	St Marys Secondary School (PP)	63620
John Busher	Bunclody Community College (PP)	71620H
Nadia Corridan	Selskar College (PP)	71680C
Brendan Fahy	Scoil Mhuire Tagoat	17769M
Aoife Banville	Scoil Mhuire Ballyhogue	17841R
Therese Dalton	New Ross ETNS	20458M
Anne Manning	St Colman's N.S. Ballindaggin	15962T
Aoife Banville	Castledockrell	17519M
Sheila Forsey	St.Garvan's NS	17612C
Trish Middleton	All Saints' National School	14972R
Becci Whelan	Wexford Educate Together NS	20333P
Sonya Weston	Gaelscoil an Inbhir Mhóir	20080M
Sheila Forsey	Ballymurn N.S.	05070W
Helen Flanagan	SS Michael & Peter Junior Sc.	20470C
Lynn Haughton	St.Senan's Primary School	08221J
Oenone (Nonie) Stafford	Carlow Educate Together	20295K
Oenone (Nonie) Stafford	Riverchapel N.S.	15367F
Sheena Furlong	Ballycanew National School	15420G
Anne Manning	St Iberius NS	18824W
Caroline Busher	St.Patrick's NS Ballymurphy	18510W

List of School Pairings 2024/2025

Artist Name	School Name	Roll No.
Artist Name	School Name	Roll No.	Helen Flanagan	St Michaels and St Peters	20470C
Brid Colloton	Our Lady of Fatima	19266T
Sonya Weston	St Patrick’s NS, Ballymurphy	18510W
Lynn Haughton	Monaseed NS	15937U
Sonya Weston	Rathnure NS	17707N
Caroline Busher	Ballyduff NS	18687P
Mirona Mahar	Barntown NS	17913Q
Helen Flanagan	St Josephs NS	17181B
Brendan Fahy	Castledockrell	17519M
Lynn Haughton	Clonroche	06959G
Sheila Forsey	St Josephs NS Kilmuckridge	14903V
Kate Murphy	Convent of Mercy NS	11986N
Helen Flanagan	Kilcommon NS	18033O
Sonya Weston	Presentation Carlow	61141N
Sonya Weston	Good Counsel New Ross	63610I
Helen Flanagan	St Marys CBS Enniscorthy	63560T
Aoife Banville	Colaiste Eoin Hacketstown	70410O
Becci Whelan	St Marys Secondary School New Ross	63620L
Trish Middleton	St Marys Arklow	61780A
Nadia Corridan	Bunclody Vocational College	71620H

List of School Pairings 2023/2024

Artist Name	School Name	Roll No.
Sonya Weston	St Michael NS	17462J
Anita Mahon	St Garvan's NS	17612C
Sheila Forsey	Kilnamanagh CNS	13999j
Nonie Stafford	Scoil Naomh Brid/ Knockananna	18470N
Lynn Haughton	All Saints NS	14972R
Sonya Weston	Wexford Educate Together NS	20333P
Sonya Weston	Carnew NS	18242A
Caroline Busher	St Joseph NS	17800D
Trish Middleton	Scoil Muire Rosslare	168790
Noni Stafford	Gusserane NS	14900P
Sheila Forsey	Scoil Naomh Maodhog	19890R
Joe Brennan	Shillelgah No 1 NS	15359G
Helen Flanagan	New Ross Educate Together	20458M
Lynn Haughton	Scoil Naomh Aine/ Rathgarogue	16023B
Nadia Corridan	Scoil Mhuire Ballyhogue	17841R
Nadia Corridan	Colaiste Bhride Carnew	70790e
Sonya Weston	Kennedy College	71660T
John Busher	Meansscoil Gharman	68080H
Brid Colloton	Bunclody Vocational School	71620H
Helen Flanagan	Gorey Educate Together Secondary School	68386I

List of School Pairings 2022/2023

Artist Name	School Name	Roll No.
Anita Mahon	Our Lady of Lourdes NS	19667O
Anita Mahon	Colaiste Abbain	71600B
Caroline Busher	Bunscoil Ris – New Ross	20482J
Colum Kavanagh	St. Michaels NS- Borris	17462J
Colum Kavanagh	Piercestown NS	18558E
Colum Kavanagh	Kilnamanagh NS	13999J
Colum Kavanagh	Bunclody Vocational College	71620H
Heather Hadrill	Carnew NS	18242A
Heather Hadrill	Star of the Sea NS	15367F
Heather Hadrill	Gorey Educate Together Secondary School	20214H
Helen Flanagan	All Saints Carnew NS	14972R
Helen Flanagan	Scoil Naisiunta Phadraig Naofa, Avoca	18198A
Helen Flanagan	Ballon NS	14837L
Jenni Roddy	Wexford Educate Together	20333P
Joe Brennan	St. Annes NS - Rathangan	19317K
Joe Brennan	St. Patricks’s NS – Crossabeg	17017L
John Busher	Galbally NS	17734Q
John Busher	Ballaghkeane NS	146680
Lynn Haughton	Bunscoil Loreto	16145P
Colum Kavanagh	Kennedy College New Ross	71660T
Colum Kavanagh	Scoil Ghormain Naofa castletown – Gorey	17768K
Nonie Stafford	St. Catherines NS – Ballyhack	18387D
Nonie Stafford	Monageer NS	18308E
Nonie Stafford	St. Garvans NS – Taghmon	17612C
Nonie Stafford	Cushinstown NS	16673R
Nonie Stafford	Meanscoil Gharmain	68080H
Nonie Stafford	Ramsgrange Community College	91431Q
Colum Kavanagh	Scoil Mhuire – Coolcots	19739N
Sheila Forsey	St. Iberius NS	18824W
Sheila Forsey	Gaelscoil an Inbhir Mhoir	20080M
Sheila Forsey	Ballyoughter NS	10780L
Sheila Forsey	Scoil Naomh Brid	18470N
Sonya Weston	Colaiste Eamonn Ris	61510R
Sonya Weston	Kildavin NS	18090D
Sonya Weston	St Marys CBS Enniscorthy	63560T
Sonya Weston	St Patricks NS - Rathvilly	17663T
Sonya Weston	St Aidans Parish School	20003R
Sonya Weston	St Mary Secondary School New Ross	63620L
Sonya Weston	St Laserians NS	19315G
Colum Kavanagh	Scoil Naomh Abbain	17526J
Colum Kavanagh	Ballycullane NS	17194K

Schools of Sanctuary Ireland Post Primary

11 Champion Schools of Santuary in Wexford in 2025

Bunscoil Loreto Primary School, Gorey, Co. Wexford - awarded in 2020

Kilrane National School, Co. Wexford - awarded in 2022

Creagh College Gorey, Co. Wexford - awarded in 2022

Bunclody Vocational College, Bunclody, Co. Wexford - awarded in 2023

Loreto Secondary School, Wexford- awarded in 2023

Presentation Secondary School, Wexford - awarded in 2023

Selskar College Wexford - awarded in 2024

Enniscorthy Community College - awarded in 2024

Bridgetown College, Bridgetown, Co. Wexford- awarded in 2025

St. Mary’s Secondary School, New Ross, Co. Wexford - awarded in 2025

Coláiste Bride, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford - awarded in 2025

7 Member Schools of Sanctuary in Wexford in 2025

Coláiste an Atha Kilmuckridge

Gorey Central School

Kennedy College

Scoil Mhuire NS, Rosslare

St. Senan’s Primary School

St. Kevin’s NS

Tara Hill NS

Member Schools of Sanctuary

What does a Member School of Sanctuary mean and how is it different to a Champion School?

Schools that become 'Members' of Schools of Sanctuary do so by demonstrating their school’s intention to join the School of Sanctuary Network starts to achieve the following:

Signing the School of Sanctuary pledge and demonstrated the charter in their school.
Submitting the Membership Registration Form
Begining to engage with the 3 core principles of Schools of Sanctuary e.g. Learn and Action principle. Read or Learn more
Celebrates Diversity
Invites guest speakers on themes e.g. refugees, racism, discrimination, diversity, etc
Organises culture days
Participates in School of Sanctuary events
Officially announces that they are a School of Sanctuary
Has sanctuary committee
Active on Social Media, Website sharing sanctuary messages.

When member Schools are Awarded Champion Schools of Sanctuary status:

The following will be some of the key characteristics of the Champion Schools of Sanctuary.

Has been monitored and awarded Champion designation
Has a live Sanctuary Portfolio, being regularly updated
Sanctuary messages shared on the school’s website, and social media channels.
Organises networking meetings with other schools, sharing good practices.
Encourages other schools to follow suit.
Is part of National Champion Schools, building partnerships

Champion Schools of Sanctuary

What does a Champion School of Sanctuary mean?

The goal for every Member School is to become a designated “Champion School of Sanctuary,” a recognition that celebrates the school’s deep commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment for all students, regardless of their background and differences, especially for refugees and those seeking sanctuary.

There are three stages to this:

Review Stage

The school undergoes a review process, where the Sanctuary Committee shares a portfolio of evidence demonstrating the school’s engagement with the three Sanctuary Principles: Learn, Action, and Share.

2. Monitoring Visit

A team of monitors visits the school to evaluate the implementation of the Sanctuary Principles and provide feedback on areas for further improvement.

3. Awarded as Champion School of Sanctuary

If the school meets the criteria set forth by the Schools of Sanctuary initiative, it is officially recognized as a Champion School of Sanctuary, receiving a plaque and certificate to display proudly. The School will continue to expand its initiatives and reach more schools to join the journey by sharing their good practices.

What is a School of Sanctuary?

A School of Sanctuary is a school that is committed to creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment that benefits everybody, especially families seeking sanctuary. It is a school that helps its students, staff, parents, and the wider community to understand what it means to be a refugee and to extend a welcome to everyone regardless of their immigration status.

Schools of Sanctuary is not a project, nor a short-term school initiative. It is a culture that schools achieve over time to ensure everyone feels welcomed, safe, and included in the school and beyond. It begins with 3 core principles:

Learn, Take Action and Share.

3 Principles of Schools of Sanctuary

Principle 1. Learn

Schools start learning about refugees and hearing their stories, why people are forced to flee their countries and the issues, and challenges people are facing in Ireland. Also, we learn about the cultures, traditions, food, and languages of people who have come to our community.

Here are some good examples of what Schools of Sanctuary do:

Attend Webinars or workshops about the refugee journey to Ireland.
Find out about all the languages spoken in the homes of students.
Invite Sanctuary Ambassadors or a refugee to share their experience.
Make connections with the local refugee support NGO.

Principle 2. Take Action

Now that Schools have developed an understanding of the refugees and asylum process in Ireland, we make an action plan of ways we can support refugees locally and nationally.

Here are some good examples of what Schools of Sanctuary do:

Invite newcomers to share their culture & stories in diversity celebrations.
Prioritize English Language and other supports for newcomer students.
Invite Sanctuary Ambassadors to describe their experience of Direct Provision and arriving in Ireland.
Create ‘Welcome Packs’ in different languages for parents
Make sure the displays reflect the languages and cultures represented in the school.

Principle No 3. Share

Here are some good examples of what Schools of Sanctuary do:

Schools reach out to other schools in their areas to encourage them, and to share good practices, successes and stories.
They share their SoS journey on their website and social media platforms.
Some schools contact media outlets and produce video and audio campaigns around the Schools of Sanctuary.

What is a School of Sanctuary like?

A School of Sanctuary is a school that works on providing a sense of safety for those whose lives may be in danger in their own country, who have troubles at home or who are just looking for a space where they can feel safe. The whole school is committed to making it a safe and welcoming place for anyone seeking sanctuary. The school consciously helps students, staff and the wider community to understand what it means to be seeking sanctuary. Schools of Sanctuary welcome everyone as equal, valued members of the school and the community. It is a school that is proud to be a place of safety and inclusion for all. A School of Sanctuary develops intercultural awareness through the gradual acquisition of intercultural skills and celebrates all cultures within its community.

How do we become a School of Sanctuary?

To become a recognised School of Sanctuary, you will need to adopt the three principles – Learn, Action and Share.

Learn: What it means to be seeking sanctuary; this may include hearing refugees describe their experiences first-hand.

Action: Decide on actions that are needed in the school to help develop a culture of welcome and inclusion.

Share: Share your findings with the wider community and other schools.

You will find out much more in our free Resource Pack Become a School of Sanctuary - Schools of Sanctuary Ireland on the following link.

https://schools-ireland.cityofsanctuary.org/become-a-school-of-sanctuary

Get Started

Contact your local City/County or Place of Sanctuary Group, and inform them of your School’s intention.
Click here to download the Schools of Sanctuary Charter and the Pledge Forms
Follow the guidelines of the Schools of Sanctuary Resource Pack. Following the three guidelines, LEARN, ACTION and SHARE, begin to prepare your portfolio.
When you are ready, we can arrange for a monitoring team to visit your school to help decide if you are ready for a School of Sanctuary Award.

PDF Version_ Schools of Sanctuary Pledge Form 2023

Word Version_ Schools of Sanctuary Pledge Form 2023

This is your starting point and a good way to get your whole community involved.

The 3 Tiers of Schools of Sanctuary

Friends, Members and Champion schools. Please click this link to read more about the 3 tiers of Schools of Sanctuary as this is very helpful for schools to be aware of where their journey is and how they could plan their engagement with the network and beyond.

Final Post Primary Activity Sheet

Primary 4th-5th and 6th Activity Sheet