John Ó'Faoláin

Subject(s):: Science, History, Geography
Curriculum Strands:: Story (History), Local Studies (History), Life, society, work and culture in the past (History), Eras of change and conflict (History), Politics, conflict and society (History), Continuity and change over time (History), Myself and my Family (History), Human environments (Geography), Natural environments (Geography), Environmental awareness and care (Geography/Science), Living things (Science), Materials (Science), Energy and forces (Science)
Counties catered for:: Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Wexford, Wicklow
Classes catered for:: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th

As a passionate advocate for promoting and preserving Irish heritage, my work centres on exploring and sharing the intangible aspects of our culture, our folklore, stories, and traditions that are rooted in the identity of our nation. These elements hold immense value and should be carefully passed on to future generations.

I specialise in engaging children through creative, hands-on activities that make heritage come alive in meaningful and interactive ways. With a particular focus on storytelling, folklore, and filmmaking, I aim to help children discover the richness of their local heritage whether it's the history of buildings, tales from their community, or unique local traditions. By involving pupils in digital storytelling, archiving, and outdoor exploration, I show them how they can create a lasting legacy of their heritage while fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity.

Place-based learning and outdoor engagement are central to my approach. By stepping outside the classroom and into the world around them, children gain a deeper connection to their environment and community. This also addresses the growing need for children to spend more time outdoors, building a curiosity and a sense of pride for their surroundings.

I would love the opportunity to work with your school to inspire young learners, guiding them to uncover, document, and celebrate the stories and traditions that make their locality unique. Together, we can create a vibrant archive of heritage that will resonate for generations to come.

This is a meaningful way to build awareness, respect, and appreciation for Irish heritage, ensuring it continues to thrive in the hearts and minds of the next generation.

Creating Folklore Collectors

In the classroom, students will become folklore collectors by working together with cameras or audio recorders. They will research themes like family traditions, local legends, or childhood games and prepare a list of questions to guide their exploration. Divided into small groups, they will take turns as storytellers, interviewers, and recorders. Once the stories are captured, the class can watch or listen to them, document the folklore, and create a shared archive to celebrate their unique collection. This activity fosters collaboration, storytelling, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Archiving is key to preserving important work, stories, and traditions for future generations. It allows students to document their learning in various formats, while building skills like organisation and reflection. Through archiving, children develop a deeper appreciation for their heritage, ensuring these valuable stories remain accessible and meaningful for years to come.

Additional Information

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

Contact Details

Mobile:: 087 7045961
Email:: traditionalarchivechannel@gmail.com
Website:: www.facebook.com/traditionalarchivechannel/