New Arts Experiences programme open for Longford Transition Year students

New programme offers chance for students to work alongside professional artists

Press Release: Friday, 4 September 2026 

Transition Year students across County Longford are being invited to apply for a new programme of Arts Experiences for the 2026/27 academic year. Funded by Longford County Council and Creative Ireland, the initiative will give young people the opportunity to work alongside professional local artists while developing practical skills in performance, music, circus, visual art, fashion, dance and filmmaking.

Organised by Longford Arts Service, the programme is aimed at TY students, as well as home-schooled students of a similar age, who are curious about the role of artists and creative activity in their local community. No previous experience in any art form is required. Places are limited and interested students can apply online at www.longfordarts.ie or through their TY Coordinator. 

The 2026/27 programme includes nine different experiences, giving students the opportunity to choose an area that matches their interests or try something completely new. Students can apply for experiences that focus on making skills like street art, fashion, film making, or circus skills. For those who like to meet new people and learn more about performance skills there are opportunities in dance, drama, comedy and singing.

The programme also aims to encourage creativity, confidence, teamwork and self-expression while helping young people build connections within their local community. The programme is deliberately varied, with opportunities ranging from evening commitments to intensive week-long experiences. Day programmes take place in the Longford Town area between 10am and 3pm, while some programmes take place in the evening. 

Longford Arts Service could not have made this happen without the generous participation of artists and local arts organisations including Longford’s County Choir, variety group, Voices United group and the newly formed Longford Social Circus. 

Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Gerry Hagan said, “This programme gives young people a great opportunity to explore interests that may not always fit into the ordinary school timetable. These experiences are designed to give students access to talented artists, learn practical skills, work with other young people, and see what is involved in creating a performance, artwork, or film.”

Longford County Council Chief Executive Samantha Healy said, “Creative experiences help young people build confidence, develop new skills, and see their communities in new ways. This programme creates opportunities for students from across County Longford to engage with talented local artists, discover their own creativity and take part in activities that can have a lasting impact on their personal development. We are delighted to support a programme that makes the arts accessible to young people from all backgrounds.”

Arts Officer Shane Crossan noted that the programme is designed to give young people meaningful opportunities to volunteer their time in a creative environment, with many experiencing active citizenship through the arts for the first time. The programme can also facilitate students who wish to use their participation towards preparation for their Gaisce Bronze Award.

Students and parents are encouraged to check the individual programme requirements and deadlines, as application dates vary. Applications are made through the links provided for each experience.

For further information, application forms, and programme details are available from Longford Arts Office, Longford County Council by emailing artsoffice@longfordcoco.ie or logging onto www.longfordarts.ie.