Education
Our education programmes are developed alongside our supporting partners to help deliver dynamic courses and workshops. With a range of curated elements to engage with a broad community, we endeavour to connect as many people with the history, heritage, craftsmanship and beauty of the cathedral. We are proud participants of national celebration days such as Cruinniu na nOg, Heritage Week, Culture Night, Home of Halloween and Science week amongst others.
With our participation in Cruinniu na nOg, and with the support of Kilkenny County Council; we have been allowed the opportunity to connect groups of children with important aspects of their built heritage. We have had the chance to delve further into the creation of the stained glass windows and their long history as part of St Canice’s Cathedrals story.
A new project proposal is submitted every year for Cruinniu na nOg funding, exploring various aspects of St Canice’s Cathedral. Information on these annual events can be found on our social media outlets. If you have an interest or would like to become involved, please email Catherine at explore@stcanicescathedral.com
Heritage Week has been an opportunity for us to open up the Cathedral in an exciting way and invite children, families and the general public to step through the gates for a more in-dept insight into the history within the close walls. Previous years have seen an exciting programme of walking tours to various locations in Kilkenny, examining the medieval and Christian past of the city; treasure hunts around the close; and drop in family workshops. Heritage week takes place during the month of August, keep an eye on our social media outlets for further updates on programming and the free events that take place.
One evening every year in the month of September, Culture Night is an opportunity for sites of heritage, arts and culture around Ireland to celebrate. St Canice’s Cathedral takes the opportunity to showcase the best of its heritage, history, culture and craftsmanship in this ambitiously programmed event. This Kilkenny County Council funded night, allows for us to open the doors to the public for a vigorous night of tours, talks, demonstrations, music and workshops. Keep an eye on our social media for updates and further information on this exciting night in our education calendar.
Science Week, a national celebration of all things STEM, kindly supported by CALMAST stem hub, SETU Ireland and Research Ireland, takes place in November. This week of experimenting and investigating allows participants to look in a different light, at elements of the Cathedral’s history, through the lens of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Previous participation in this event has allowed us to explore the making of the Red Book of Ossory in closer detail, discussing the books origin story and the history of the codex. Participants have learnt how to make their own books, stitching a book spin, and also experimented with natural inks and natural dip pens. This allowed for the exploration of technological developments in book making throughout the age, since medieval times.
More information is posted closer to the time of this annual event in November and free tickets can be booked from our website.
Adult Education
We deliver various courses for adults including drawing courses, calligraphy, plein air and genealogy. For further information on our education programmes keep an eye on our social media channels and website events page.
Our adult education programme is designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection. Whether you want to develop a new artistic skill, explore local history, or simply enjoy thoughtful conversation in the evenings, our welcoming courses offer something for every interest and experience level.
Led by experienced tutors and guest speakers, each course combines expert guidance with a relaxed, social learning environment. From practical studio sessions to engaging talks, our programme invites adults of all ages to learn at their own pace and enjoy the process.
Courses available throughout the year. These courses are led by artists and professionals in their field. All materials provided.
Calligraphy
Explore the timeless art of beautiful writing. Our calligraphy courses introduce learners to lettering styles, pen techniques, layout, spacing, and decorative flourishes. Suitable for both beginners and returning learners, these classes are perfect for anyone interested in creative expression, design, or traditional craft.
Drawing
Build confidence in observation, line, tone, composition, and mark-making through our drawing courses. Students work across a variety of subjects and materials, developing both technical skill and personal style in a supportive studio setting.
Plein Air
Take your creativity outdoors with our plein air painting and drawing sessions. Working on location, participants capture landscapes, architecture, gardens, and changing light in real time. These courses are ideal for artists who enjoy responding directly to the natural environment.
Genealogy
Trace family stories and uncover the past through our genealogy courses. Learn how to research family records, use online archives, interpret historical documents, and build your family tree. These sessions are ideal for beginners as well as those looking to deepen existing research.
Evening & Lunchtime Talks
Our evening and lunchtime talks, take place at intervals throughout the year, and offers engaging lectures and conversations; topics including art, culture, history, heritage, creative practice and local history. These relaxed sessions are perfect for lifelong learners who enjoy discovering new ideas and hearing from knowledgeable speakers and specialists.
Our adult courses and talks are open to all levels, from complete beginners to experienced enthusiasts. Above all, we aim to create an enjoyable and enriching experience where learners can develop skills, meet like-minded people, and continue exploring their interests.
For upcoming dates, booking information, and new course announcements, please keep an eye on our social media outlets, our website, or email explore@stcanicescathedral.com
