BLAST Arts-in-Education Residency Programme

Bringing Live Arts to Students and Teachers (BLAST) Arts-in-Education Residency Programme 2024

The Department of Education announced the launch of the 2024 arts and creativity in education BLAST Residency programme, which will bring arts and creativity in education to up to 425 new Residencies in the school year 2024/25.

This initiative aims to support the objectives of the Creative Ireland Creative Youth Plan (2023-2027) which builds on the principles and skills outlined in the Arts in Education Charter (2013) and the achievements of Creative Youth (2017-2022).

BLAST aims to provide pupils in schools all over the country, time and the space to work with a professional artist/creative practitioner on imaginative and joyful projects. BLAST is a key Department of Education initiative of the Creative Youth Plan 2023-2027 which aims to foster creativity in schools focus and to provide young people with opportunities to learn and develop the key skills and competencies of collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation.

Innovative BLAST residencies are designed and developed between the artist/creative practitioner, teacher, students and the school community under the coordination of the 21 full-time Education Support Centres Ireland (ESCI) network.

Are you a Primary or Post Primary teacher or school leader in Kilkenny Education Centre's catchment area? If so, we encourage you to apply for the BLAST Arts-in-Education Residency Programme 2024 here! This incredible initiative is designed to bring the arts to life in the classroom and to inspire young minds to explore their creativity. Please click on the following link to download BLAST Application Guidelines and further details.

The BLAST Residency Programme offers a range of exciting activities and resources, including music, dance, drama and visual arts. These activities are tailored to suit different age groups and abilities, so whether you teach in Primary or Post Primary, you are sure to find something that will engage and excite your students. Research has shown that the arts have a positive impact on children's mental health, well-being and academic performance. By participating in the BLAST Residency Programme, you can help your students to develop important skills like creativity, critical thinking and communication, as well as boost their confidence and self-esteem.

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to enrich your students' education and bring the magic of the arts to your classroom!

Kilkenny Education Centre Register of Approved Artists for BLAST Programme 2024