As part of the Creative Places Kilfinane – Research and Development Award project, a creative engagement workshop was held at Scoil Fhionáin, Kilfinane’s local primary school.

Facilitated by Creative Places Coordinator Katie O’Rourke, this visit provided an opportunity to connect with the youngest members of the community and introduce them to the Creative Places initiative in a fun and meaningful way.

Throughout the school day, Katie met with classes from Junior Infants to 6th Class, delivering interactive and age-appropriate creative sessions. Each workshop explored:

• What creativity means to children.

• Why being creative is important in daily life.

• What the children love most about their lives, families, pets, and community.

The workshops encouraged co-creation and imaginative thinking, with each group contributing to a collaborative artwork that reflected their favourite things - from flower beds and family time to beloved pets and local landmarks.

Senior students were invited to think about the future of Kilfinane through a "dream map" activity. They drew and described what their ideal version of Kilfinane would look like, offering a range of imaginative and thoughtful ideas for a brighter, more colourful town filled with play areas, artistic spaces, and inclusive community zones.

The workshops took place outdoors, and each session concluded with a light-hearted group "shake-off", incorporating singing, dancing, and movement. This fun finale reinforced the joy and freedom that creativity brings and left students energised and enthusiastic about their experience.

Throughout the sessions, Katie also shared information about the Creative Places Kilfinane project, what it hopes to achieve, and how children and families can get involved.

To ensure parents and guardians were informed, each student brought home a letter outlining the purpose of the visit and the role of Creative Places Kilfinane within the community. This helped extend the conversation beyond the classroom and into the wider community, encouraging family awareness and participation.

Get Involved

Creative Places Kilfinane is for everyone - from our youngest artists to older generations. If you’d like to get involved or share a creative idea, get in touch with Katie directly at [email protected] or 083-0413471.