Ruth Marshall - Heritage Experts | Heritage in Schools

Ruth Marshall

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Ruth Marshall Butter Making
Ruth Marshall Exploring Seasonal Traditions
Ruth Marshall Storytelling
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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), Living things (Science)
Counties catered for:
Clare, Galway, Kerry, Kildare, Limerick, Meath, Offaly, Tipperary
Classes catered for:
All Classes

Book in-person visit


Ruth is a storyteller and author with a particular interest in folklore, traditional crafts and healing plants. Her visits include talks, storytelling sessions, hands-on craft activities using natural materials.

Ruth introduces children to folklore and traditions associated with the year’s festivals - including the Celtic festivals of Samhain, Imbolc, Bealtaine and Lughnasadh - through stories, songs, games and seasonally appropriate craft activities (e.g. Brigit’s crosses, May garlands, fortune-tellers, etc).

The children learn about common native plants, their folklore, properties and traditional uses.These sessions include storytelling, plant observation, making ‘potions’ and simple crafts.

Storytelling sessions can be based on: a sense of place - folk tales from Co. Limerick or from Co. Clare; Irish plants and animals; traditional stories from the Celtic countries; tales that celebrate the natural world and our place in it.

In a series of visits, students learn about gathering local stories, and can work on developing their storytelling skills.

Ruth's books include Celebrating Irish Festivals, Limerick Folk Tales, and Clare Folk Tales. As a storyteller, Ruth is a regular contributor to the Clare Museum's education programme.

Testimonials

  • "Ruth was excellent. The children loved listening to the stories. The lessons were pitched at their level. They really enjoyed Ruth's visit."
  • "Highly enjoyable experience for both pupils and staff." - Anacarty National School, Tipperary
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  • "Very worthwhile and enjoyable" - St Tola's NS, Clare
  • "Ruth Marshall’s visit to the school was an engaging and enriching experience for the students. She brought heritage to life through her knowledge, storytelling, and interactive approach, which really captured the children’s interest. The session was well-paced and age-appropriate, allowing all pupils to participate and connect with the material. It was particularly valuable in helping students appreciate their local heritage and understand its importance in a meaningful way. Overall, it was a highly worthwhile visit that supported classroom learning and inspired curiosity about history and culture." - Inch NS, Clare
  • "Great Visit. The children really enjoyed the storytelling sessions and follow-up activities. The sessions were very interactive and the children loved being involved." - Knockaclarig N.S. Cork
  • "We had a wonderful day with Ruth." - St Josephs NS Kill, Mayo
  • "Ruth was excellent with the children.They were fascinated to learn about St. Brigid, the traditions from the past, the artifacts she displayed and the interaction with the class." - St Paul's NS,Limerick

Additional Information

  • Provides in-person visits
  • Caters for special needs
  • Provides practical/hands-on activities

Contact Details

Mobile:
087 694 5060
Email:
ruth.a.marshall@gmail.com
Website:
www.ruthmarshallarts.weebly.com