Local basket maker brings heritage craft to Leitrim National Schools

Local basket maker Helena Golden is bringing heritage craft to the younger generation, thanks to her new role as a Heritage in Schools Specialist.

Through the scheme, Helena will have the opportunity to visit primary schools to help children and their teachers learn about and gain hands-on experience in heritage crafts, acting as a valuable supplement to the school's existing educational resources and curriculum.

"Down the years, I have worked with many schools and have seen the excitement and interest my workshops bring to students, that allows them to understand heritage craft, nature and a little bit of Irish history in a new and more interactive way," she said.

Helena added: "That is why I can't wait to work with more wonderful schools and students in 2024 and bring the magic of craft to them in this innovative way".

She is an experienced Irish artisan with a deep-rooted passion for basketry, nature, foraging and weaving.

With years of teaching various forms of basketry and craft, Helena brings the essence of sustainable, eco-friendly Irish craft to your fingertips and helps children connect with their natural environment.

These visits are part-funded by The Heritage Council as part of the programme called 'Heritage in Schools', where schools have the opportunity to reach out to a specialist to reach out to a specialist in their area and run workshops.