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Clonaslee College was delighted to host the official launch of the LOETB TY Digital Arts Programme on December 10th. This programme has been developed exclusively for Transition Year students in nine schools across Laois and Offaly by LOETB, in partnership with Laois and Offaly County Councils.
The programme provides students with training and equipment in Filmmaking, Podcasting and Virtual Reality content creation. Students will use their new skills to tell stories from their schools and communities, with an Oscars-style showcase and awards ceremony on May 6th at the Esker Arts Theatre, Tullamore.
Principal Sean Cotter welcomed guests and spoke about the value of introducing this exciting new subject area to Transition Year students. LOETB Director of Schools Linda Tynan noted that the programme was over three years in development and highlighted the added value of collaboration with both County Councils. She also acknowledged Terence O’Brien, LOETB Digital Technology Support Co-ordinator, as the driving force behind the programme and commended the strong working relationships he has developed with both County Councils.
Representing the local authorities, Ray Bell (Offaly County Council) and Antoinette Brennan (Laois County Council) explained that the Digital Arts Programme builds on their existing STEAM supports for schools and expressed their delight in continuing to support initiatives of this kind. They also acknowledged the ongoing work already taking place through Seanie Morris and Dean Hodge, the Laois and Offaly STEM Engagement Officers, who are actively engaged with schools across both counties.
Muireann Ní Chonaill, Laois Arts Officer, encouraged the students present to embrace the wide range of opportunities associated with the arts and suggested that involvement in the programme could inspire future career pathways. She also highlighted the excellent local courses available through Abbeyleix Further Education, which can support students who wish to continue developing their skills.
Ms Carina Dunne, teacher of Film Making at Clonaslee College, spoke about the enthusiasm shown by TY students as they embrace their creativity, and acknowledged the invaluable support provided by Terence to both herself and Ms. Pamela Wilson throughout the programme. She expressed her hope that students’ talents will continue to develop over the year and that the experience may spark lasting interests in the arts.
The launch also heard from students Niamh, Grace and Áine, who shared their experiences of filmmaking so far. They spoke about the appreciation they have gained for the work that happens behind the scenes and their motivation to use their new equipment. Students expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to be involved in the programme and their excitement for what lies ahead.
Clonaslee College is hugely grateful to LOETB, Offaly County Council and Laois County Council for their support of this exciting initiative. We look forward to seeing what our students produce over the coming months.
Thanks to Paul Moore Photography for the official photographs.
