Siobhán Madden - Heritage Experts | Heritage in Schools

Siobhán Madden

Siobhán Madden
Subject(s):
Science, History, Geography
Curriculum Strands:
Early people and ancient societies (History), Natural environments (Geography), Environmental awareness and care (Geography/Science), Living things (Science), Materials (Science)
Counties catered for:
Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Wexford, Wicklow
Classes catered for:
All Classes

Book in-person visit


Siobhán brings together creativity with the natural environment. Pigments and mark making from minerals, cones and flora bring wonder and curiosity as we engage with the folklore of the trees, plants, animals and the ancient monuments of the locality. Natural materials can tell us stories of our past, present and imagined futures through hand spinning wool and plant fibre. Through playful activity, we can gain new insights in to how animals inhabit the environment. We take a closer look at micro creatures and details of what we normally miss on both our walks together and on the treasures brought for gaze and discovery.

A. Through hands on activities which depend on seasonal availability, children will have opportunity to create with plants whether through print and pigment, fibrous cords and strings, or imaginative play and making.
B.  Games can bring empathetic and fun embodiment of animals and their particular qualities and preferences.
C.  Natural items will be on display for curiosity and conversations that stem from this.
D.  Listen to the folklore inherited about our wonderful flora and fauna.
E.  Mini Beast hunts will give us a chance to explore the micro habitats of our areas, look a little closer at the small creatures and describe them.

A. We will identify the native Irish trees with their leaves and bark while making leaf Impressions through clay or print.
B.  Let’s find out how to write our name in Ogham and discover the trees through the ancient Ogham alphabet using colour provided by the trees themselves.
C.  Sit spots outdoors will bring about personal connection to a particular tree and curiosity and learning on the biodiversity of what’s held there. Co-learning will be facilitated.
D.  Let’s hear of the folklore inherited about the trees which encapsulate the qualities that trees evoke in us.
E.  Can we create a mini habitat for the creatures we find at the trees?

A. What ancient monuments do we have in our locality and what is the folklore that encompasses them?
B.  Is there rock art on your local monuments? How did people first make paint? Let’s try make it ourselves and explore!
C.  The Hedgerow Apothecary. What are some of the plants that our ancestors used as medicine and are any of these still incorporated into modern medicine and cosmetics?
D.  Horses and Heritage. How have horses shaped our past from transport, battle, farming, sport & leisure, to today where they teach us something a little different.

Testimonials

  • "We were absolutely delighted to welcome Siobhan to our school for a day full of learning and discovery! As one of the first schools she visited in her new role as a Heritage in Schools Specialist, we were eager to learn about native trees and vegetables with her expertise and enthusiasm. Siobhan brought a wealth of knowledge to the classroom, especially when it came to native trees, their branches, and their many uses. Her passion for nature and the environment was contagious, and it was clear that every student felt inspired and engaged throughout the day. Siobhan was not only knowledgeable but also so warm and friendly. She created an atmosphere where all the students felt comfortable asking questions and exploring new ideas." - Grangecon NS, Wicklow
  • "Siobhán engaged the children very well and taught them good strategies for recognising the types of trees in their environment. Writing with the tree ink was a big bonus!" - Carlow Educate Together NS, Carlow
Read more →
  • "Siobhan was so kind and helpful, she had a great rapport with the students and they loved looked at the aquatic animals." - St Leonards NS, Kilkenny

Additional Information

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

Contact Details

Mobile:
0857365831
Email:
thenaturalschoolofart@gmail.com
Website:
www.thenaturalschoolofart.com