As part of the Creative Places Kilfinane – Research and Development Award project, two youth consultation workshops took place at Scoil Pól, Kilfinane’s local secondary school, on March 31st and April 2nd, 2025.

The sessions, led by Creative Places Coordinator Katie O’Rourke, were designed to directly engage with the youth of the area and ensure their voices are central to the project’s development.

Across two days, Katie met with over 700 students aged between 12 and 18. These sessions formed a critical part of the research phase, focusing on:

• What creative and social opportunities are currently available for young people in Kilfinane.

• What young people feel is missing in terms of facilities, spaces, or activities.

• How they would like to be involved in future creative initiatives.

The workshops were structured as youth-led consultations, with an emphasis on active listening, idea generation, and valuing the lived experiences of students growing up in the town and surrounding areas.

Key Themes and Findings

The students provided a broad and insightful range of feedback, including:

• A strong desire for dedicated youth spaces where they can socialise outside of formal sports structures like the GAA.

• Interest in more arts-based, inclusive activities.

• A willingness to actively participate in Creative Places Kilfinane and shape its direction for their age group.

Youth Voice in the Creative Places Kilfinane Plan

As the next generation of Kilfinane’s creative and cultural life, the voices of Scoil Pól students are invaluable. Their perspectives will be integrated into the final Creative Places Kilfinane final report to ensure that it reflects the real needs, dreams, and creative potential of the next generation.

Creative Places Kilfinane welcome all young people who want to share ideas, collaborate on projects, or help shape a more creative, inclusive Kilfinane. Get in touch with Katie directly at [email protected] or 083-0413471.