Junior Cycle Talks: Recent Episodes
Junior Cycle Talks
Junior Cycle Talks is a podcast provided by the Junior Cycle for Teachers support service. The podcasts explore a variety of issues, themes and topics that may be of interest to all teachers, students, parents and school leaders.
Film producer and former official film censor John Kelleher discusses his career, shares insights into films that have inspired him and explains why people skills are essential for a film producer.
https://www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-film/john-kelleher
In this episode we discuss how Elaine became a composer and music facilitator, she talks about her work in healthcare and education settings, the importance of creating fun and interactive musical experiences for people to support creativity, collaboration and wellbeing. Elaine also spoke about her work as a composer and the collaborative projects that she has been involved with and we listened to and discussed two of Elaine’s compositions.
This podcast features two of Elaine’s compositions, which are used with permission:
Strings A-Stray, commissioned by the Irish Chamber Orchestra (1994)
Remarkable from the Arts Care Remarkable Project in collaboration with Arts Care and the Ulster Orchestra (2021)
https://www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-music/elaine-agnew
This episode of 'Conversations from the Classroom' features English Teacher, Patricia Carlos from St. Colman's Community College, Co. Cork. In the final episode of this academic year, Patricia discusses supporting a culture of reading and writing with her mixed-ability students. She also discusses the value of publishing student writing and practical strategies to bring this to life in the classroom.
Bestselling author Dave Rudden tells us about how he wants to ‘demystify writing’, his writing process and what inspires him.
Dave Rudden is the author of the award-winning Knights of the Borrowed Dark trilogy, the first book of which is on the Junior Cycle suggested novels for First Year English. He has visited hundreds of schools talking about books, beards, inspiration, and mental health, and currently serves as DCU's first Writer-in-Residence.
Episode webpage
This two-part episode of 'Conversations from the Classroom' features English teacher, Niall Daly, from Belmayne Educate Together Secondary School, Dublin. In Part 2, Niall talks about engaging students in writing, modelling the writing process and using digital technology to support editing.
This two-part episode of 'Conversations from the Classroom' features English teacher, Niall Daly, from Belmayne Educate Together Secondary School, Dublin. In Part 1, Niall talks about engaging with learning outcomes, developing student vocabulary and exposing students to a wide variety of texts.
Will Sliney, a native of Ballycotton, Co. Cork, is a comic books illustrator. He currently works with Marvel Comics. A graduate of Multimedia in Cork Institute of Technology his work includes a trilogy of Celtic Warrior books with O’ Brien Press. His edition of Cú Chulainn has become Ireland’s fastest ever selling graphic novel. During the COVID-19 pandemic he presented short drawing lessons on RTÉ’s Home School Hub called ‘We Will Draw’ and currently ‘Will Sliney’s Storytellers’ on RTÉ2 guides children on how to draw for animation.
He co-created Star Wars character Ren, has worked on Marvel’s Fearless Defenders series and the monthly series Spider-Man 2099.
For more visit www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie
Colm Keegan is an award-winning writer and poet. He is also an experienced creative writing teacher and facilitator, passionate about empowering new voices and inspiring creativity for individuals and organisations. Colm has developed numerous creative writing projects for schools and colleges across the country and is currently Artist in Residence with Maynooth University. His latest project called Writing Home, which has been made into a documentary film, won a LAMA award for best education initiative 2021. His most recent poetry collection is called ‘Randomer’.
In this episode, Colm speaks about his work with young people and we discuss some creative methodologies that he uses to inspire and support young people in making and sharing their work. He also talks about his own creative processes and reads a powerful poem from ‘Randomer’ called Love Bomb and gives insights to us about the context of this work.
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie
A Dublin native, Colm Mac Con Iomaire is a composer, performer and film-score arranger. Colm’s father came from the Connemara Gaeltacht and Colm’s family were Irish speakers living in Dublin. On his mother’s side there was classical instrumental music and as Colm learned to play as a very young child, he found himself in a place of naturally occurring opposites Irish and English (language), rural and urban, classical and traditional, old and new and this manifested itself through his music.
In our conversation we discussed Colm’s early school life as a musician, being involved in The Frames and what impacts his creative process. We talked about the importance of being able to recognise and nurture talents in young people. Throughout the podcast Colm shares some of the ways he is inspired to create and develop his musical ideas.
In this episode, JCT English chat with Kathyrn McCance, from the Listen Now Again Seamus Heaney exhibition curated by the National Library of Ireland. Kathryn gives us a fascinating insight into Heaney's 'The Burial at Thebes.' The play is a version of Sophocles' Greek tragedy 'Antigone.' Kathryn discusses the creative departures that Heaney took from the original play and the various dramatic techniques he used to bring the play to a new audience.
In this episode of 'Conversations from the Classroom,' we speak with English teacher, Gemma McGill. Gemma discusses how she uses drama in the classroom to develop student confidence and oral literacy. She also discusses the positive influence that graphic novels have in drawing students into a world of reading.
Peadar Ó Guilín is an Irish novelist whose novel, The Call, is a new addition to the list of prescribed texts for Junior Cycle English for students presenting for examination in 2024, 2025, and 2026. The novel is a dystopian adventure exploring themes of courage, disability, love, resilience and societal expectations. This Arts in Junior Cycle podcast has been created with the JCT English team.
For more visit: https://www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-literature/peadar-oguilin
This podcast was created by the JCT English team for the Junior Cycle Talks podcast channel.
In this episode, Irish playwright and actor Sonya Kelly talks to us about storytelling, drama and her play 'The Wheelchair on My Face.' This play has recently been added to the new Prescribed Text List for Junior Cycle English for students presenting for examination in 2024, 2025 and 2026.
Architect Eric Nay joins us on the podcast to speak about where his interest in architecture began, where his inspiration comes from and the importance of community along with the positive impact that architects can have on their community. He also gives us an insight into the ‘Architecture Connects’ initiative where groups of teachers explored the design process with an architect. This initiative was run as a collaboration between Arts in Junior Cycle and The Irish Architecture Foundation.
Eric has practiced architecture and design in offices in New York City, Chicago and California and has held faculty appointments in Canada, the US and the UAE. Eric teaches architectural history and theory as well as environmental and industrial design studios at Ontario College of Art & Design University.
He was one of 17 architects who participated in Architecture Connects. This initiative is run in collaboration with Irish Architecture Foundation, where a architects facilitate small groups of teachers in exploring the design process.
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-design/eric-nay
This two-part episode of ‘Conversations from the Classroom’ features English teacher Joe Rolston from The Presentation Secondary School in Wexford. This second part the conversation focuses on feedback strategies, mixed ability teaching and reflecting on Junior Cycle English.
Irish mezzo-soprano Sharon Carty is a singer who has firmly established a reputation as a respected interpreter of both early and contemporary works, alongside maintaining a busy schedule in mainstream opera and concert repertoire. She is currently an Artistic Partner to Irish National Opera as well as a Creative Associate on the Irish Arts Council pilot “Creative Schools” scheme.
In our conversation we discuss her career change from Physical Education teacher to opera singer, she shares some of the most poignant roles she has performed and she advises us all to listen to our inner voice.
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-music/sharon-carty
This two-part episode of 'Conversations from the Classroom' features English teacher Joe Rolston from Presentation Secondary School, Wexford. In Part 1, Joe talks about how he approaches text selection. He also discusses working with students to develop an organic approach to connecting texts and the role that interwoven non-literary texts can play in broadening student experience.
Participating schools from the Step Up Project share their Step Up stories. The podcast aims to help school leaders, SSE leaders and teachers interested in moving their practice from effective to highly effective.
Individual school reports, overall composite report and videos from participating schools are available on the www.stepupproject.ie
This podcast:
03:00 | Hopes for the project
06:00 | Identifying a focus and gathering evidence
14:25 | Positive impacts of the project (Teachers/Leaders)
18:35 | Positive impacts of the project (Students)
23:50 | Reflection and key learning
Overview of the project:
The overarching aim of the Step Up Project was to support schools already at an effective level of implementation of the Framework for Junior Cycle (2015) to move to a highly effective level. The nine schools involved in the project were given the time to reflect on teaching, learning, assessment and reporting in three subject areas and to identify how the quality of provision and implementation, both for those specific subjects and for the overall Framework for Junior Cycle, can be raised to the highest level.
Schools participating in the project were required to take a school self-evaluation approach in reviewing their current implementation of the Framework in one or more of three subject areas: English, Business Studies and Science. Schools were encouraged to identify areas for improvement and were supported in developing and implementing actions leading to improvement in their chosen areas.
Tailtiu Theatre Company is a joint venture by Barry Morgan and Cathal Thornton, currently based in Droichead Arts Centre, Drogheda. Former members of Droichead Youth Theatre, Barry and Cathal create interactive theatre for young people. They use drama to help participants find ways to express themselves creatively and to explore their identity. Previous projects include Under d' Bed for Droichead Arts Centre and the Abbey Theatre’s 5 x 5. Their show Operation Spies was performed as part of the National Festival of Youth Theatres 2021.
https://www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-theatre-dance/tailtiu
In our conversation we discussed Nadine’s busy work life, working as an editor, a columnist, a podcaster and radio presenter. We talked about how she manages to juggle these varied roles and Nadine offers advice to young writers and to those interested in engaging with audio texts.
In this episode, Head of Department at GMIT Letterfrack, Paul Leamy talks to us about the need for responsible use of wood, developing transferable skills with students and how GMIT Letterfrack has developed its facilities to include converting and seasoning of their own timber for use in student projects.
www.jct.ie
www.gmit.ie/schools-campuses/gm…-letterfrack-campus
In this episode, Head of Department at GMIT Letterfrack, Paul Leamy talks to us about the joy of designing and making with wood and the importance of developing the key principles of handskills at GMIT Letterfrack, the National Centre for Excellence in Furniture Design and Technology.
www.jct.ie
www.gmit.ie/schools-campuses/gmit-letterfrack-campus
In this episode of Conversations from the Classroom, English teacher, Emer Whyte from Galway Educate Together Secondary School talks about her experience of inclusive planning for all learners. Emer discusses how her school has adopted a UDL approach to learning and how departments collaborate for Level 3 and Level 2 learners.
In this podcast Zoë Conway and John McIntyre, husband and wife duo, join us to discuss their roles as fiddle, voice and guitar duo performers, composers and arrangers. They share their influences and consider the importance of being open to them. They also speak about developing their own unique sound, taking pride in your music and communicating their music to an audience. Zoë and John play two of their own compositions during the recording.
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie
www.zoeandjohn.com
In our conversation Sean speaks about his creative process as a writer of both fiction and plays, his experience of Fighting Words as a participant and as a facilitator and mentor. He also talks about the Fighting Words model and its significance and impact.
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie
www.seanfarrellywrites.com
Ronan and Bruno discuss the experiences that they offer on their courses in CNC, CAD and Cobotics. They also chat about Junior Cycle Engineering and the importance of the skills developed for the world of work.
In this short podcast you will hear from a number of teachers discussing the teaching habits that they use to support their students when learning. They will also share some of the teaching habits they are trying to change and the rationale for these changes.
For more information on JCT visit www.jct.ie or contact us by email info@jct.ie
In this short podcast you will hear from a number of teachers discussing their strategies and suggestions for motivating students in the maths classroom. They also discuss how they support their students in developing a persistent approach to engaging with challenging work.
For more information on JCT visit www.jct.ie or contact us by email info@jct.ie
In this episode we explore the main societal issues that young people today are concerned with, we consider which junior cycle subjects might support students investigating these issues and we consider the concept 'Solution Generation'.
You will hear from students and teachers from Lusk Community College, teachers Rob O'Leary, Clara Hutchinson, Sally McGuire, Mary O'Connell and Elizabeth Cahill, as well as from Dr James Lovett and Dr David King.
For more information on JCT visit www.jct.ie or contact us by email info@jct.ie
In this episode we explore the acronyms STEM and STE(A)M, how they are interpreted and how they may throw up barriers and challenges.
You will hear from students from Lusk Community College, teachers Rob O'Leary, Mary O'Connell and Elizabeth Cahill, as well as from Dr James Lovett and Dr David King.
For more information on JCT visit www.jct.ie or contact us by email info@jct.ie
In our conversation, Siobhán O’Kelly chats about her experience of acting today and her varied career in theatre, film and tv. She shares her love of all things Shakespeare and tips and tricks for getting to grips with the language behind some of his most famous plays. The episode forms part of the JCT English Drama and Performance podcast series.
In this episode of ‘Conversations from the Classroom,’ English teacher Patricia Wall from Scoil Chaitríona in Dublin talks about the power of the collection of students texts. Patricia describes how she uses this to progress and build on student writing. From drafting to redrafting, students choose texts for their CBA 2 moment and Patricia explores what this looks like in her English classroom.
In our conversation Chantal speaks about combining aerial work and dance. She also talks about the impact of those who have inspired her in her career and the importance of knowing that it is not just technique and practice that make a good performer but also the emotion, the heart and the passion that one brings to the performance.
Episode page
This is the second episode in the JCT Business Studies 'Open for Business' Podcast Series. In this episode we speak with Caroline McHale of the Student Enterprise Programme. We also speak with Teacher, Sinead Brady and one of her students, Sean, about their experience of the programme.
This is the first episode in the JCT Business Studies 'Open for Business' Podcast Series. In this episode we speak with Muriel Dolan, Deputy Head of Communications at the Consumer and Competition Protection Commission. In this episode, Muriel talks about the CCPC and about their 'Money Matters' online resource.
In this episode Daniel speaks about his influences and how he incorporates them into his contemporary designs. He also speaks about his passion for his craft and his creative process from selection of materials through to the completion of a piece of furniture.
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcasts-visual-arts/daniel-gill
In our conversation Adam talks about what inspires him, how he crafts his work and the importance of collaboration with others. He also discusses the value of a creative space in the school day.
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-literature/adam-mohamed
In this episode of ‘Conversations from the Classroom,’ English teacher Patrick Huff from Ardscoil Mhuire, Limerick talks about using a wide variety of texts in the Junior Cycle English classroom. From teaching a novel, to short stories and non-literary texts, Patricks shares with us his approach and what works for him and his students. He also discusses ways to use time more efficiently by embracing the integrating of learning across genres.
In this episode, Cork actor Éanna Harwicke chats to us about his journey into acting, his creative process and what it was like to be part of the global smash that was TV series Normal People, adapted from the bestselling novel by Sally Rooney.
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast/eanna-hardwicke
Born in Nigeria, Inua Ellams is a poet, playwright, performer, graphic artist and designer. Now based in London, Inua spent his early childhood in Nigeria, later moving to Ireland as a teenager and attending secondary school in Dublin.
In our conversation, Inua tells us about his time in Ireland, the sparks of inspiration that led to his love of writing and his play The 14th Tale which is on the Junior Cycle English prescribed text list for current 2nd & 3rd years.
www.inuaellams.com
In this episode of Conversations from the Classroom, JCT English talk to English teacher Kevin Dowling of St Joseph's Secondary School, Rush, Co. Dublin. Listen to Kevin talk about how a recent unit of learning worked for his 3rd year students and their response to contemporary poetry.You can also find more information about this project on our website under CPD Workshops and by clicking on Elective CPD.
In this episode, James Bingham, Studio and Outreach Producer at Irish National Opera, talks to us about how he got involved in classical music and opera. He outlines some approaches which have helped him to motivate young people to get involved in singing. James describes his current role and some of the outreach projects he is working on. He shares his own interests in opera and gives advice on how, as teachers, we might encourage students to engage with the medium of opera.
We hope that you enjoy this podcast!
Please note: Irish National Opera provided the music and permitted for this music to be used in this podcast.
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast/james-bingham
www.irishnationalopera.ie
JCT English in conversation with author Patricia Forde about her passion for writing, the power of language and her children's novel 'The Wordsmith'
Studio Red architects Nicola Ryan and Gráinne Dunne set up Studio Red Architects in 2008.
In our conversation, Nicola and Gráinne share their insights into the importance of drawing and sketching in the design process and why the more constraints and challenges you have in architecture, the more creative you can be.
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast/stud…d-architects
www.studiored.ie
Arts in Junior Cycle short film: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/film/aia-architecture
Bestselling author Kit de Waal tells us about her favourite classic novels, her writing process and why she loves audio books.
Episode Web Page: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast/kit-de-waal
www.kitdewaal.com
In this episode, Sandra Gibney describes the work of a breakdown artist and her role at the Abbey Theatre. Sandra reveals the fascinating ins and outs of breakdown artistry and how it interacts with costume design of any production.
For more visit: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-sandra-gibney
In this episode, award winning interior architect and garden designer Leonie Cornelius chats to us about her love of designing spaces and gardens that bring joy to people. She tells us about her design philosophy, what creativity looks like in her daily work and what research she undertakes when working on a project.
This podcast was created by the JCT English team for the Junior Cycle Talks podcast channel.
Spinning Stories Out of Light is a series of podcasts exploring film in the junior cycle classroom.
Our panellists discuss how the study of film can enhance learning. They also share their own classroom approaches to the teaching of film.
This two part episode features special guest, artist and illustrator Rosa Devine. This second episode discusses light in two films on the prescribed list, Spirited Away and Moonrise Kingdom
This podcast was created by the JCT English team for the Junior Cycle Talks podcast channel.
Spinning Stories Out of Light is a series of podcasts exploring film in the junior cycle classroom.
Our panellists discuss how the study of film can enhance learning. They also share their own classroom approaches to the teaching of film.
This two part episode features special guest, artist and illustrator Rosa Devine. This first episode discusses colour in two films on the prescribed list, Spirited Away and Moonrise Kingdom.
Dr Niamh O’ Meara is a Lecturer in Mathematics Education based in EPISTEM, the national centre for STEM education housed in the School of Education, at the University of Limerick. She has previously worked as a Senior Mathematics Project Officer in the National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and Learning. Her research interests include teacher knowledge, teacher education and issues surrounding the mathematics curriculum in Ireland.
In this podcast we discuss the development of procedural fluency and conceptual understanding in post-primary mathematics students and, the role of the teachers in supporting students in the transition from primary to post-primary education.
For more information on JCT visit www.jct.ie or contact us by email info@jct.ie
In this episode, Tolu Makay chats about her inspirations as a songwriter. Having moved to Ireland from Nigeria at the age of 5, Tolu chats about her inspirations as a songwriter and how that journey has evolved for her over the last number of years. Building on the success of her EP ‘Being’ in 2020 and her cover of the Saw Doctors track N17 with the RTE Concert Orchestra, Tolu tells us about her hopes for the future. We are delighted to include 3 longer pieces of music in this episode:
You Are Enough – Tolu Makay
N17 – Tolu Makay & RTÉ Concert Orchestra
Used to Be – Tolu Makay
All music is included by kind permission from Tolu Makay, Kite Entertainment, RTÉ Concert Orchestra, Rubyworks and The Saw Doctors.
‘N17’ is written by Leo Moran and Davy Carton. Leo and Davy wrote ‘N17’ for the debut single by The Saw Doctors which was released in January 1990by Solid Records. The single flopped but following the success of The Saw Doctors second single ‘I Useta Lover’ in the autumn of 1990, ‘N17’ was re-released in November 1990 and climbed to No.2 in the Irish Charts. Leo Moran is the guitar player with The Saw Doctors while Davy Carton is the lead singer.
In our conversation, sports photographer James Crombie shares with us the story of how he got into sports photography and what a match day looks like for him. He tells us about what it felt like to win The Irish Press Photography of the Year Award, as well as the process and research involved in capturing Murmuration of Starlings over Lough Ennell. Finally, James tells us about the importance of communication in his work and gives some advice for those who wish to pursue a career in photography.
Episode Page: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-james-crombie
Sustainable fashion designer Sinéad Lawlor tells us about working in New York as a fashion designer, the importance of using sustainable fabrics and developing your own individual style.
For more visit: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-sinead-lawlor
Is múinteoir Mata agus Eolaíochta é Feargal Máirtín i nGaelcholáiste Cheatharlach. Déanann sé iarracht atmaisféar ranga a chruthú a chothaíonn meon dearfach i leith na matamaitice, ina bhfáiltítear roimh bhotúin agus ina spreagtar cruthaitheacht na ndaltaí. Úsáideann sé teicneolaíocht agus físeáin le tacaíocht le foghlaim na ndaltaí sa rang agus lasmuigh den rang.
Déan teagmháil linn info@jct.ie
In our conversation, Singer-Songwriter, Niamh Regan tells us about her journey as a songwriter and musician as well as what sparks her curiosity. She also chats to us about self-reflection and the process of writing, recording and editing.
The episode also includes three songs from Niamh’s debut album Hemet.
Save the Day | Sweetest Drop | Freeze Frame
For more visit: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-niamh-regan
In our conversation, author, comedian and broadcaster Colm O’Regan, tells us about how he got into comedy and broadcasting and how that has led to a wide and varied career. He discusses the phenomenon of Irish mammies and some of his favourite anecdotes that have led to the character of Ann Devine in his best-selling book series. Colm also discusses the power of storytelling and what success looks and feels like for him.
For more visit:
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-colm-oregan
In this episode, Alicia McGivern, Head of Education at the Irish Film Institute, joins Arts in Junior Cycle and The JCT English team as part of the Spinning Stories Out of Light series of podcasts.
In our conversation, Alicia discusses why it is so important for young people to study film and film language, and particularly focuses on The Hunt for the Wilderpeople (Waititi, 2016), Wadjda (al-Mansour, 2012) and His and Hers (Wardrop, 2009).
For more visit:
https://www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-alicia-mcgivern
https://jct.ie/english/english
In our conversation, Artist Clare Blackwell tells us how she makes her colourful screen prints and why, as a social being, she loves being part of a shared studio space.
Clare is a member of open access studio www.damnfineprint.com
Clare has also participated in the Dublin Canvas Project https://www.dublincanvas.com/
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie
Episode page: https://www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-clare-blackwell
In our conversation, comedian, writer and podcast host Maeve Higgins, tells us about how she got into comedy and how that has led to a wide and varied career. She talks about what is like living in New York as a creative person and the unique opportunities that provides. Maeve also discusses how she defines success and what makes her most proud.
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-maeve-higgins
twitter.com/JuniorCycleArts
In our conversation, Mia Cooper (first violin and leader of the orchestra), Stephen Kelly (percussionist) and Michael Seaver (clarinet and saxophone player) from the award winning RTÉ Concert Orchestra join us to discuss the role of the orchestra in society, the process of working in a big ensemble and how the experience of the arts has shaped them in their profession.
This episode includes clips of three RTÉ Concert Orchestra recordings by kind permission.
Johann Strauss | Thunder and Lightning Polka
N17 - Tolu Makay and the RTÉ Concert Orchestra
Zoe Conway, John McIntyre and the RTE Concert Orchestra, David Brophy, Desert Storm Rounding Malin Head.
N17 is written by Leo Moran and Davy Carton
Leo and Davy wrote ’N17’ for the debut single by The Saw Doctors which was released in January 1990 by Solid Records. The single flopped but following the success of The Saw Doctors second single ‘I Useta Lover’ in the autumn of 1990, ’N17’ was re-released in November 1990 and climbed to No. 2 in the Irish Charts.
Leo Moran is the guitar player with The Saw Doctors while Davy Carton is the lead singer.
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie
Episode page: https://www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-rte-concert-orchestra
In our conversation, actor and director Tom Sullivan tells us about the importance of the landscape in his latest film Arracht, what sparked his interest in film making and his use of the Irish language.
Part I - English
Part II - Irish
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie
Episode page: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-tom-sullivan
This podcast was created by the JCT English team for the Junior Cycle Talks podcast channel.
Spinning Stories Out of Light is a series of podcasts exploring film in the junior cycle classroom.
In this episode our panellists discuss film texts Kes (Loach, 1970) and E.T. (Spielberg, 1982) as they are currently prescribed texts for students who commenced their Junior Cycle English courses in 2018, 2019 and 2020, presenting for examination in 2021, 2022 and 2023.
The focus in this episode is on film language, specifically shots and camera movement and their impact on audience experience.
This podcast was created by the JCT English team for the Junior Cycle Talks podcast channel.
Spinning Stories Out of Light is a series of podcasts exploring film in the junior cycle classroom.
Our panellists discuss how the study of film can enhance learning. They also share their own classroom approaches to the teaching of film.
This episode features director and film writer Mark Cousins. His work includes Women Make Film, documentary The Story of Film: An Odyssey and book The Story of Looking.
In this Junior Cycle Talks Podcast episode, owner of Glengowla mine in Connemara, Keith Geoghan, talks about mining technology, principles and the applications of the minerals mined in Glengowla. Keith also talks about the life of the miners and engineers who worked in the 19th century mine.
For more details visit www.jct.ie
Strung are a contemporary Irish music ensemble comprising Maria Ryan (violin/vocals), Lucia Mac Partlin (violin), Séan Warren (cello) and Aonghus McCarthy (piano). Originally forming in Cork, they have toured extensively in Ireland, Europe and the US. Their dynamic ensemble and unique backgrounds allow them to subtly integrate complex harmonies and innovative motifs, while staying true to the deep-rooted authenticity of traditional Irish melodies.
For more visit:
www.strungmusic.com
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie
www.jct.ie/music/music
www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-strung
In this episode we talk with Niall McCarville, Margaret Barrett and Keith Howley. Some of the topics discussed include active learning pedagogies, technology in the maths classroom and teaching during school closures.
This episode was recorded pre-Christmas 2020.
For more information on JCT visit www.jct.ie or contact us by email info@jct.ie
John McLoughlin is a professional guitarist and classical guitar teacher from Dublin.
He has played with a huge range of artists in his career, including Damien Dempsey, Gilbert O’Sullivan, Lisa Lambe and many others.
In our conversation, John tells us how he discovered his love of playing music, and shares insights into life as a professional guitarist. He also talks about the knowledge and skills needed to be successful as a musician, and why it is so important not to lose sight of one’s own creativity.
Episode page: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-john-mcloughlin
For more visit: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast
Two members of Kíla, Rónan Ó Snodaigh and Brian Hogan, join us to chat about the history of Kíla and their ever evolving sound. The episode also includes a recording of Bí Ann / Leanfaidh Mé.
Part I - English
Part II - As Gaeilge
Episode web page: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-kila
www.kila.ie
For more visit www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie | Twitter: @JuniorCycleArts
In this week’s episode we chat to Saileóg O’Halloran, a Costume Designer based in Dublin. Her work in film and theatre has travelled worldwide, with her work for Dead Centre travelling to various countries in Europe, Asia and Australia. Recent film work includes “Algorithm”, “Kathleen Was Here”, “Cynthia” and Jack Reynor’s directorial debut “Bainne”.
Recent theatre work includes “The Great Hunger” & “The Fall of the Second Republic” for the Abbey Theatre.
Street spectacle work includes “Danse Macabre” & “Out of the Wild Sky” for Macnas.
Saileóg is an Irish Times Irish Theatre Award nominee and a member of the ISSSD (Irish Society for Stage & Screen Designers).
Episode webpage: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-saileog-ohalloran
www.saileogohalloran.com/
Follow Saileóg O'Halloran on Twitter @salohal
For more visit www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie | Twitter: @JuniorCycleArts
Sinéad Crowley has published three crime novels in the DS Claire Boyle series, Can Anybody Help Me? Are You Watching Me? and One Bad Turn, all of which were shortlisted for the Irish Book Awards. She is also Arts & Media Correspondent for RTÉ.
In our conversation, Sinéad gives us her take on what makes a good crime novel and shares insights into her creative writing process.
She also talks about her work as a journalist, and why it is so important for young people to learn media literacy and know the difference between fact and opinion.
Episode webpage: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcast-episode-sinead-crowley
Follow Sinéad Crowley on Twitter @SineadCrowley @scrowleyauthor
For more visit www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie | Twitter: @JuniorCycleArts
In this episode we talk with Dr Aibhín Bray and Claire Cooper. Aibhín is an Assistant Professor in Mathematics in the School of Education, Trinity College and Claire is a Teacher Fellow with Trinity Access. Some of the topics discussed include active learning pedagogies, technology in the maths classroom and Bridge 21. For more information on Bridge 21 visit www.thestaffroom.ie or contact Aibhín by email brayai@tcd.ie
For more information on JCT visit www.jct.ie or contact us by email info@jct.ie
In this episode we chat with Dublin-born and globally based photographer Ruth Medjber. Her portfolio includes portraits of Grace Jones, Hozier, Metallica and the Foo Fighters. Most recently, she documented Arcade Fire on their tour of the UK and Europe, as well as covering the Glastonbury Festival for the BBC. In 2020, when the music industry was paused by Covid-19, Ruth began taking portraits of people at home through their windows in a series titled "Twilight Together". This body of work, now published as a book by Penguin, became one of the most iconic portrait series of our time.
For more visit: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcasts
In this week’s episode we talk to Sophie Doyle, Education Assistant at the National Library of Ireland. In our conversation, Sophie shares her extensive knowledge of the Listen Now Again exhibition,which celebrates Seamus Heaney’s life and work and is housed in the new Cultural and Heritage Centre, Bank of Ireland, Dublin.
Some Reflection Questions accompany this podcast, available at: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie/podcasts
For more visit www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie | www.nli.ie
Felicia Olusanya, better known as FeliSpeaks was born in Nigeria and moved to Ireland when she was eight years old.
Known primarily as a poet, Felicia was commissioned by RTE this year to create a spoken word piece on the Covid pandemic. The resulting poem, Still really caught the mood of the country and Felicia has reached a wider audience as a result.
As well as writing poetry, Felicia has also written and performed her own play. Her latest work is a collaborative film piece They, exploring identity in modern Ireland.
In our conversation, Felicia tells us how she was inspired by her primary school teacher and why being ‘anxious with inspiration’ is key to her creative process.
For more visit: www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie
www.felispeaks.com
For this episode, we spoke to YA and Adult author Sarah Crossan.
Sarah has lived in Dublin, London and New York, and now lives in East Sussex. She graduated with a degree in Philosophy and Literature before training as an English and drama teacher at the University of Cambridge.
The Weight of Water and Apple and Rain were both shortlisted for the CILIP Carnegie Medal. In 2016, Sarah won the CILIP Carnegie Medal as well as the YA Book Prize, the CBI Book of the Year award and the CLiPPA Poetry Award for her novel, One. She recently published her first verse novel for adults entitled Here is the Beehive
For more visit www.artsinjuniorcycle.ie
In this episode we asked teachers to discuss the challenges they face in supporting oral communication in the physically distanced MFL classroom and discuss how these challenges can be overcome. For more from the JCT MFL team go to jct.ie/modern_foreign_languages. Queries and comments to info@jct.ie.
Sa phodcraoladh seo, labhair muid le Máire faoin a próiseas cruthaitheachta agus an grá atá aici don Ghaeilge.
Máire has written 11 books for children, from picture books to a YA verse novel. Winner of the KPMG Children’s Book of the Year (2019) and numerous other awards nationally and internationally. Her books appear in 8 languages worldwide. She was the first Children’s Writing Fellow for Northern Ireland (2017-19) and was recently appointed Artistic Director of Quotidian – Word on the Street, leading on children’s and Irish language projects.
In this episode we talk to UI Designer Jonathan Lynch. He talks to us about his journey in the games industry, his process in developing and designing MMO games and some interesting insights into the creative process when developing digital experiences.
In this episode, teachers talk about how they are capturing student learning and effective feedback in the pandemic classroom.
In this episode, Oran gives us a fascinating insight into his life as professional dance artist telling us what inspires him, about his creative process and reflecting on his work. This episode features 'The Sonderho Set' by kind permission of Strung www.strungmusic.com
In this Junior Cycle Talks Podcast episode, Dominic talks to us about the creativity of his work, his ability to bring design ideas to realisation and the value previous metals and bespoke jewellery can bring to people's lives.
In this episode of MFL Shoptalk Libby and Eileen caught up with MFL teachers to discuss how they support student engagement in the physically distanced MFL classroom. For more from the JCT MFL team go to jct.ie/modern_foreign_langua…ern_foreign_languages. Queries and comments to info@jct.ie.
In this episode, teachers talk about how they are developing skills of investigating in the pandemic classroom, where additional sanitisation measures now in place, have impacted on how teachers can engage students in practical science.
In this podcast, we hear from four teachers who taught Junior Cycle students during the period of school closure in the last school year. They are discussing how they kept the learning active when teaching remotely and are sharing what active learning now looks like in their physically distanced classrooms.
For further information contact info@jct.ie
A Junior Cycle Talks podcast with ceramicist Tina Byrne.
Arts in Junior Cycle and the Visual Art team talked to Tina about her creative journey, her ceramics processes and what influences her work.
A Junior Cycle Talks podcast with fine art painter Blaise Smith.
Blaise shares with us some fascinating insights into his work, including the importance of drawing, painting for posterity and about his commission by the Royal Irish Academy to paint a large group portrait of leading contemporary female scientists.
Garry McCarthy (GMCBeats) is a songwriter and music producer with a background in multimedia and IT. He runs creative workshops in songwriting, rap, recording, music technology, video and podcasting for schools and youth groups.
He also runs the not-for-profit community music space The Kabin Studio in Knocknaheeny, Cork, mentoring and recording young rappers and songwriters in Cork city as well as delivering workshops there with other local musicians.
In our conversation, recorded in June 2020, Garry talks about his musical influences, the artists who inspire him and why being creative is so important for all of us.
The podcast includes extracts from some of Garry’s own songs, including Haircut, composed when Garry was 11 years old, Not Tonight (Bouncer Song), Focus and Chasing Shadows.
We hope you enjoy listening.
For more on Garry McCarthy’s work, visit: www.gmcbeats.com
Series One: Voices from a Community of Practice
In this episode, we feature Irish science teachers sharing practice through discussions on overcoming the challenges of working in the pandemic classroom.
Teachers talk about how they are promoting social interaction in the classroom where physical distancing and wearing of face masks is now the norm.
In this Junior Cycle Talks Podcast episode, UX Designer Aoife O’Dwyer talks to us about her journey into the design industry, her process in solving problems and prototyping design solutions.
Galway-based poet, novelist, playwright and teacher Elaine Feeney has published three collections of poetry, Where's Katie?, The Radio was Gospel and Rise.
As You Were, Elaine’s debut novel, was published on the 20th of August. In January, she was chosen by The Observer as one of the top ten debut novelists of 2020. She is currently working on her second novel.
Elaine teaches English and History in St. Jarlath’s College, Tuam, Co. Galway and Creative Writing at NUI, Galway.
In our conversation, Elaine shares her experience as a teacher of Junior Cycle English. She discusses her approaches to supporting students in developing their writing skills and the importance of feedback and encouragement.
In this Junior Cycle Talks Podcast episode, Chair of the Irish Woodturners Guild Willie Creighton talks about his life and times, his passion for his craft and where he finds his inspiration.
For more see www.jct.ie
POW! Portfolio of writing pilot project which took place in the 2019 - 2020 academic year, resulting in the publication of Visions and Revisions - A Collection of New Writing by Junior Cycle Teachers.
In this podcast, we will hear Emma Gallagher JCT and project participant in conversation with Caroline Heffernan, Volunteer with Fighting words.
You can listen to audio extracts of the stories from Visions and Revisions in the Arts in Junior Cycle section of www.jct.ie & on www.fightingwords.ie
POW! Portfolio of writing pilot project which took place in the 2019 - 2020 academic year, resulting in the publication of Visions and Revisions - A Collection of New Writing by Junior Cycle Teachers.
In this podcast, we will hear Dr. Orla Lehane, Education Director with Fighting Words in conversation with POW! participants Katie McDermott & Patricia Wall.
You can listen to audio extracts of the stories from Visions and Revisions in the Arts in Junior Cycle section of www.jct.ie & on www.fightingwords.ie
POW! Portfolio of writing pilot project which took place in the 2019 - 2020 academic year, resulting in the publication of Visions and Revisions - A Collection of New Writing by Junior Cycle Teachers.
In this podcast, we will hear Dr. Orla Lehane, Education Director with Fighting Words in conversation with Emma Gallagher.
A Junior Cycle Talks podcast with director Lenny Abrahamson
Dublin-born film director Lenny Abrahamson’s early films include Adam & Paul, Garage and What Richard Did.
Oscar-nominated for his film adaptation of the novel Room, his most recent feature is The Little Stranger, released in 2018.
Lenny also directed Normal People, the TV series adapted from Sally Rooney’s novel. The show has been a massive hit and has really captured people’s imaginations.
In our conversation Lenny gives us an insight into what he most enjoys about filmmaking, how he gets the best out of his actors and why the arts and education are so important. For more Arts in Junior Cycle resources, visit the Arts in Junior Cycle section on www.jct.ie.
A Junior Cycle Talks podcast artist Yvonne Cullivan.
In our conversation Yvonne talks about her creative process, her commitment to public art and why research is so important.
A Junior Cycle Talks podcast with artist Eileen O'Sullivan . In our conversation Eileen talks about her work, studio practices and what sparks her curiosity.
In this podcast Luke Healy gives us a fascinating insight into his life as a cartoonist, telling us what inspires him and how he creates his cartoons and graphic stories.
The Arts in Junior Cycle team are delighted to present a series of podcasts for teachers to support engagement with the arts and learning in Junior Cycle, produced in collaboration with a range of artists and arts organisations.
You can expect a rich mix of talks, all designed to delve a little deeper into what inspires our artists and how they bring their art to life.
Check out our website jct.ie/artsinjuniorcycle.
To hear more from Junior Cycle Talks, search for us on SoundCloud or anywhere you listen to your podcasts.
Aoibhinn is an Assistant Professor in the UCD School of Mathematics & Statistics where she is director of the BSc. Science, Mathematics & Education programmes in the UCD College of Science. Her research investigates issues in Mathematics Education, with particular focus on teacher education and the development of teacher pedagogical content knowledge. To find out more about JCT visit our website www.jct.ie or contact us by email info@jct.ie
Thérèse Dooley is a recently retired Associate Professor of Mathematics Education at DCU Institute of Education. She conducted her PhD studies at the University of Cambridge and entitled her thesis The construction of mathematical insight by pupils in whole-class conversation.
She was one of the lead authors of the NCCA desktop review of research on mathematics education at early-childhood level and, in the context of the redevelopment of the primary mathematics curriculum, recently authored an addendum to this review.
She chaired the tenth conference of the European Society for Research in Mathematics Education (CERME10) that was held in Dublin in 2017, and co-edited its proceedings. In recent years, she has facilitated Japanese Lesson Study with pre-service and in-service teachers and sees it as a very robust form of professional development.
In this podcast she discusses creativity in the context of primary school mathematics and considers some of the thinking around Anna Craft's 'big C and small c' creativity for primary school students.
All of her endeavours in mathematics education are driven by her deep interest in young learners’ development of powerful mathematical thinking.
To find out more go to www.jct.ie/maths. For queries contact us by email info@jct.ie
Sa clár seo labhráimid le Cliodhna Devitt. Is múinteoir le Mata agus Corpoideachas í Cliodhna i gColáiste Eoin. Déanann sí iarracht seomra ranga a chruthú ina bhfuil úinéireacht ag na daltaí ar a gcuid foghlama féín, go mór mór trí úsáid a bhaint as cleachtas athmhachnaimh.
Déan teagmháil linn info@jct.ie
In this episode we talk to Peter Fitton, a maths teacher in Bishopstown Community School in Cork. His areas of interest are group work and student motivation. For more from the JCT Maths Team go to www.jct.ie/maths. Queries and comments to info@jct.ie
A podcast capturing an interview with Susan O'Keeffe, director of Yeat's Society Sligo, discussing Yeat's early work in short story and how it can support teachers' engagement with Junior Cycle English. Support material at https://www.jct.ie/english/elective_workshops Queries and comments to info@jct.ie
A brief introduction to Tangents, a series of podcasts from the JCT Mathematics Team for the Junior Cycle Talks podcast channel.