William McElhinney - Heritage Experts | Heritage in Schools

William McElhinney

William Mc Elhinney Glengad N S Making Seaweed Soup
Subject(s):
Science, History, Geography
Curriculum Strands:
Story (History), Local Studies (History), Early people and ancient societies (History), Life, society, work and culture in the past (History), Eras of change and conflict (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:
Donegal
Classes catered for:
All Classes

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William specialises in nature-based outdoor education and as a seasoned Leave-No-Trace specialist, he is enthusiastic about providing tailored marine and river biodiversity workshops and field trips to highlight the significance of water and to underscore the value of our connection with the ocean. William has developed and delivered national nature-based creative arts programmes that focus on sustainability, climate change, and holistic approaches to nature and well-being. William has devised an engaging 5-day program called Cnusach Mara, or Sea Pickings, which delves into the heritage of seaweed to explore themes of ocean conservation, heritage food, and wellbeing. A strong advocate for sustainable practices, he emphasises the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge and methods to protect and conserve our rich natural heritage. He is particularly attuned to the issue of eco-anxiety among young children, and his activities are designed to address this by fostering proactive engagement with the natural world, thereby enhancing students' wellbeing. William is dedicated to highlighting Ireland's rich food culture and is eager to share straightforward, practical steps to advance food security, sovereignty, and justice. He offers heritage cooking classes that focus on incorporating seaweed and using organic, local produce to ensure the food is not only delicious and nutritious but also sustainable. Additionally, he shares his expertise in traditional boat building and the art of storytelling through mythology.

William offers a series of structured 5-day workshops designed to develop and support teachers in schools, which can be delivered across various classes throughout the year, from January to December. An added benefit for schools is that the fifth day is fully funded by Heritage in Schools. 

Sea pickings, a heritage educational programme. This is a unique innovative seaweed themed programme devised by William that integrates indigenous knowledge and practices with the disciplines of ocean literacy, food and wellbeing. This topic explores the rich marine heritage of coastal communities through hands-on activities and educational experiences. Students can join William on a seashore safari and learn about the diverse array of natural treasures found along shorelines, including seashells, and various marine organisms, while gaining an understanding of the importance of marine conservation and sustainable practices. William addresses climate change and explorers the role of colonisation on indigenous knowledge and practices. He offers classes the opportunity to prepare and cook traditional Irish recipes, explaining their cultural significance and nutritional value. As part of the well-being element of the Cnusach Mara programme, William takes students on mindful guided walks, focusing on local flora, fauna and geological features, encouraging students to reflect on their surroundings. Students will learn about native species, their roles in the ecosystem and their importance in Irish folklore and traditions. 

The programme offers immersive learning experiences through a combination of classroom workshops and field trips, enabling students to gain a comprehensive understanding of coastal and river ecosystems. In the classroom, William engages students in interactive sessions that cover topics such as water quality analysis, marine biology, and ecosystem dynamics.

Field trips enhance classroom learning by allowing students to apply their knowledge outdoors. William takes students on field trips which may include visits to estuaries, forests, bogs and rivers, where students can observe and study various flora and fauna in their natural habitats. Through hands-on activities like water sampling, species identification, and habitat mapping, William encourages students to develop practical skills and gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate relationships within these ecosystems. This experiential approach not only enhances students' scientific understanding but also fosters a sense of environmental stewardship and conservation awareness of our heritage.

This programme provides students with a hands-on immersive experience of Irish Celtic heritage, fostering cultural appreciation and understanding. Through storytelling, William shares traditional Irish folktales and myths associated with festivals like Samhain, Imbolc, Bealtaine and Lughnasa. William explores the seasonal changes and natural phenomena celebrated in Celtic festivals through outdoor activities and nature walks. William offers students the opportunity to prepare simple Irish dishes related to specific festivals, such as barmbrack for Samhain or boxty for Imbolc. William shares his knowledge of the many traditions and customs associated with Bealtaine, such as the lighting of bonfires or the gathering of wildflowers. Learning about these festivals in a fun, immersive way will help students expand their understanding of history, culture, nature and creativity, while also fostering respect for diverse traditions and practices

Testimonials

  • "We found the topics covered very comprehensive. The content of the presentation was appropriate to the age groups involved and the children remained highly engaged throughout the morning." - Buncrana NS, Donegal
  • "Fabulous visit. The children had a wonderful time and particularly loved the stories, sensory activities and the baking. Very educational and so inspiring. Thank you." - Kilroe NS, Mayo
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  • "Children were very interested in hearing about the important role which seaweed plays." - Buncrana NS, Donegal
  • "Really impressed with William's knowledge and ability to connect with the children to keep them engaged and curious to learn." - Scoil Cholmcille, Donegal
  • "Interesting workshops with William. We are looking forward to our day at the seashore exploring more!" - Glenmaquin National School, Donegal
  • "Excellent day. Very informative and well delivered. Great response from the children involved." - Scoil Colmcille, Donegal

Additional Information

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

Contact Details

Phone (Home):
074 9325768
Mobile:
0851053893
Email:
info@wildstrands.com
Website:
www.wildstrands.com