Schools
What Do My Surroundings Mean To Me?
By Brian Hoban
31, Aug 2011 - 18:53

The Heritage in Schools scheme makes available to primary schools a panel of 165 heritage specialists who will, at the request of a teacher, visit a primary school to work directly with the children. The primary aim of the scheme is to raise awareness of the natural and built heritage among children, teachers, and parents. The visit by the heritage specialist is part-funded by the school and the remaining costs are funded by the Heritage Council.

The value of the Heritage in Schools scheme is in the richness and depth of knowledge it makes available to children and teachers. The scheme supports the stated aims and objectives of the SESE curriculum and provides an additional educational tool and resource for teachers.

Many also have the ability to conduct their visit through the medium of either English or Irish. Specialists usually conduct their visits in or close to their own county, although many are prepared to travel. All of the specialists have been trained to communicate effectively with children; their spontaneity and enthusiasm for their subject makes the visits a very appealing educational experience for both pupils and teachers.

Among the heritage specialists for the Mayo area is Brian Hoban, Marine and Countryside Guide, who has been operating as a Failte Ireland Approved Tour Guide for a number of years. Brian has been involved for over many years in local history research and promotion of heritage and environmental awareness. His interests vary including local history, archaeology, folklore and place names.

A visit from Brian may consist of a field trip to local historical sites with discussion on local folklore and place names. The relationship between landscape and history will also be explored, especially in the context of a "sense of place". His presentations will appeal especially from 3rd to 6th classes in the primary schools and will be tailored to fit in with the objectives of the new Social Environment and Scientific Education (SESE) for primary schools.

Plan the content of the visit with the heritage specialist, and decide what preparation must be undertaken by specialist, teacher and pupils prior to the visit.

Complete and return the booking form to the Heritage in Schools Scheme, INTO Head Office, 35 Parnell Square, Dublin 1.

Further information from: http://www.heritageinschools.ie
or from Brían Hoban: Tel: 087 9234504 or email:brianhoban78@eircom.net