SHANNON Heritage has launched a new junior cycle project for secondary schools based on a tour of Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.
Developed in partnership with the Limerick Educate Together Secondary School, the redeveloped Junior Cycle tour covers a number of subjects including History, Music, Home Economics, Science, Modern Foreign Languages and Geography.
Bunratty already host up to 200 school tours a year and the new project will allow classes to explore the 15th century castle and 19th century folk park as part of the Junior Cycle curriculum in an immersive and practical way.
The Shannon Heritage education programme works in close partnership with local schools to develop meaningful educational experiences. This helps to reinforce and stimulate curiosity in young people about local and wider environments.
Limerick Educate Together Secondary School (ETSS) Principal Eoin Shinners is enthused by the new partnership.
“We do things differently in Limerick ETSS. We want students to take ownership over their own learning and develop the skills for lifelong learning. We place significant emphasis on problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration and research.
“The new Junior Cycle focuses promotes a balance between knowledge and skills. Much of what we do in school is project-led and we are delighted to be working with Shannon Heritage on this project-based learning pilot programme. It will enhance how we deliver the Junior Cycle curriculum in our school. I have no doubt that other second-level schools will see significant value in the programme” Mr Shinners said.
Teachers and students in Limerick ETSS have been engaged in integrated curriculum planning in recent weeks and will spend this term working on project-based learning that will culminate in a visit to the castle and folk park.
Shannon Heritage managing director Niall O’Callaghan said they were delighted to be partnering with Limerick Educate Together Secondary School on such a cutting edge educational project.
“We look forward to rolling this successful programme out to all our attractions, welcoming many schools across our portfolio. Our award winning attractions, which include Craggaunowen and King Johns Castle, cover the length and breadth of Irish history and are a real asset to schools throughout the country.”
Teachers can register their classes by submitting the registration form at www.bunrattycastle.ie
