Elizabeth (Beth) Murphy

Subject(s):

Science, History, Geography

Curriculum Strands:

Story (History), Local Studies (History), Early people and ancient societies (History), Continuity and change over time (History), Myself and my Family (History), Human environments (Geography), Natural environments (Geography), Living things (Science), Materials (Science), Energy and forces (Science)

Counties catered for:

Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Laois, Meath, Offaly

Classes catered for:

All Classes

Book in-person visit

Beth is a self-employed Arts facilitator, working in schools since 2005 promoting heritage craft while connecting students and teachers with their natural environment. Beth also works as a part-time tutor with KWETB. You can check out Beth’s work on RTE Jnr “makers”.

Testimonials

• "The children had an excellent session with Beth and we are looking at having her back to work with two more classes. We are also hoping to engage her in the Spring to work on an outdoor project."

• "Our Willow Arbour day was fantastic. What was created today was just go híontach. We loved Beth and she was super with us all."

Read more →

• "A really fantastic expert to have had - many thanks again."

• "Great experience for the children - learnt the traditional craft of basket weaving"

• "A amazing project lead by a wonderfully experienced, skilled and diligent artist/craftswoman." - Queen of the Universe N.S., Carlow

• "Beth's visit to our school was so enjoyable from beginning to end. The children gained so much knowledge and enjoyment from her time with us. We cannot thank her enough and indeed the Heritage in Schools scheme for creating this wonderful opportunity to learn about one of our most ancient crafts- willow weaving, how our local environment connects and how creating biodiversity and sustainability are two essential parts of our responsibility here on earth. We are now very excited and stimulated to pursue a plan for our new outdoor garden area and further create a stimulating environment for all."

• "The children loved working with Beth and learning all about the many uses of Willow in the past and present." - Coill Dubh N.S., Kildare

• "Super day beneficial to teachers and students alike a great learning experience." - Curragh GNS

• "Beth shared a wealth of knowledge with our students and teachers and has given us wonderful tips and advice." - Curragh GNS

• "The children enjoyed working with Beth immensely. They were actively engaged throughout the day and learned a lot about willow and how to work with it. They learned a lot about Biodiversity and culture. Beth was an excellent facilitator and we would love to have her work with us again."

• "Third class loved what they did and are still out every morning in pairs caring for their plants"

• "We all enjoyed a fabulous day with Beth. Even the sun shone for us! The children thoroughly enjoyed today's workshop from beginning to end. They recalled with affection the first visit we had with Beth in Term 1 and were excited to develop their knowledge and appreciation for this amazing craft . The hands-on, interactive activities that resulted in the creation of their willow dome sculpture and bird feeder allowed the children to interact with nature in a fun and creative way. The dome has created a lovely central feature in our new garden. This project allowed children of varying abilities to participate and also merge subject areas such as Maths/SESE/SPHE together. We look forward to welcoming Beth back again!" - Maryborough NS, Laois

• "Superb workshop all children engaged in weaving willow to create a beautiful Christmas decoration." - Curragh GNS, Kildare

• "In advanced of visit Beth forwarded a video clip of her work and of the willow plants growing, how she cut them and used them. She also brought samples of her work with her both decorative and functional. All of the children had an opportunity to create something. Beth was also generous with her expertise re growing a willow dome and we hope to have her back again to facilitate this and to work with some of our pupils constructing same." - Edmund Rice Senior School, Wexford

• "Fabulous day enjoyed by staff and students ...a day the children will talk about and remember as one of the teachers remarked ! We are so delighted with our willow structure." - Curragh GNS, Kildare

• "Beth was fantastic at engaging the children. Thrilled with our visit from Beth. Many thanks" - St. Thomas' JNS, Dublin

• "Beth worked with a diverse group of children throughout the day and constructed a living Willow Dome in an outdoor play area. It was a unique experience for all involved. Beth was a pleasure to work with and an enthusiast for her craft." - Anon.

• "The children really enjoyed the hands on experience" - Kildangan NS, Kildare