Published 03.12.2024
by Kids’ Own
by Kids’ Own
A children�s arts organisation and publishing house.
A children�s arts organisation and publishing house.
Last week fifty children from Attymass NS, County Mayo, and St. Colman’s PS, Annaclone, County Down, came together for an unforgettable creative workshop at Enniskillen Castle. This gathering marked the final stage of the Cruinniú na nÓg Shared Island Initiative, celebrating new friendships and artistic collaboration between the two schools.
Led by Kids’ Own artists Mary Branley and Alice Dixon (Attymass) and Ann Donnelly and Susanna Galbraith (Annaclone), the workshop focused on the theme, “How Do We Get to Know Each Other?”
Mary reflected on the day “We had a plan for the day, and crossed our fingers that it would all work out, that fifty or so children would have an opportunity to mix and mingle, and enjoy their time together. For both groups travelling from Attymass, Co Mayo and Annaclone, Co Down, there was a long bus journey, with wintery weather on both sides, whether it was wind and rain, or frost and fog. But all arrived to a warm welcome from the staff at Enniskillen Castle, with pancakes and fruit snacks to revive the weary travellers. It’s not easy to make new friends in a short period of time, but with a very relaxed approach to moving around the space together, playing “Fruit Salad” helped us get started.
One of our activities of making “question askers” was led by some students at Annaclone, and we broke into little groups of 6 or so for a demonstration of what’s involved, and then had a great time making and playing the game.
We all got together for a sing song, with Attymass leading the way this time, but Annaclone children gave us a wonderful rendition of the Star of the County Down. We then sang a pile of Christmas songs which everyone knew and singing together was really fun. Then it was time for lunch, sandwiches and crisps were demolished by children, teachers and Kids’ Own people as we sat around chatting.
Too soon it was time for the bus home, and we got some wonderful feedback before the long goodbyes.
Set in the beautiful Enniskillen Castle, the location offered the perfect midway point between Mayo and Down, echoing the spirit of shared experiences and connection. Warm hospitality from the castle staff, along with tasty pancakes and fruit, added to the excitement of the day.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
As the final event in this series of workshops, there was a strong sense of achievement and joy among all involved. Teachers described the day as an amazing opportunity for the children, with some even suggesting a follow-up summer picnic to continue the connections made. Alice said “For me it was just gorgeous to see children who have never met come together and connect over a shared creative experience. Sharing stories about themselves and their daily lives, some making really strong connections through this.”
Ann added “It was exciting to bring the two school groups together in Enniskillen Castle. We worked gradually to move them into the space, and start to introduce them to eachother. A river of ideas flooded out as the children were invited to fill long rolls of paper using marks, drawing and writing. ‘Question askers’ – version of fortune tellers -drew the children into groups as they helped each other to fold paper and write questions. We gave the group time to move around freely, using the question-askers to introduce themselves. The children discovered lots of common ground; pets, siblings, hobbies, and of course, farming and tractors. A singing session allowed everyone to come together , Hit the diff’ was a highlight, blending the Co. Down and Co. Mayo voices. It is so important to make space for this kind of experience in children’s lives, as there is so much pressure on teachers and pupils from so many directions. Altogether heart-warming.”
The creative journey doesn’t stop here. In January, the children’s work from the initiative will be showcased in an exhibition at Ballina Civic Centre, offering the wider community a chance to experience their creativity and collaboration.
Kids’ Own CEO Ciara Gallagher attended the workshop, reflecting on the significance of bringing children together to share their stories and creativity.
A big thank you to Anne from Creative Communities Mayo County Council and Creative Ireland Cruinniú na nÓg Shared Island Initiative for supporting this project and helping to make this special day possible.
Keep an eye out for updates as we prepare for the Ballina Civic Centre exhibition this January. We can’t wait to share the children’s wonderful work with everyone!
Read more about this project here https://kidsown.ie/kids-own-cruinniu-na-nog-shared-island-initiative/