Heritage Keepers is a national learning programme developed by Burrenbeo Trust, designed to empower schools and communities to take action for their local heritage. Rooted in over a decade of experience in *place-based learning, Heritage Keepers fosters discovery, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collective action.
The programme was piloted nationally in 2022 in partnership with the Heritage Council and continues to support communities across Ireland in making a meaningful impact. Whether you’re a teacher, a student, or a community member passionate about local heritage, Heritage Keepers provides the tools and support to turn ideas into action.
Through a series of interactive workshops, participants—whether school groups, community organisations, or local action teams—learn to develop a local action plan to protect and celebrate their heritage. Upon completing the workshops, groups can apply for funding and receive ongoing mentoring from the Heritage Keepers team to bring their plans to life.
*Place Based Learning incorporates all of the elements of a place – its built, natural, and cultural heritage. It involves learning about the place, in the place, and for the place.
Mary manages Heritage Keepers and has a strong interest in both built and natural heritage. She holds a degree and a master’s in Archaeology from University of Galway and has worked in various fields of archaeology, including excavations and archaeobotany. Passionate about environmental issues and biodiversity, she also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Protection from Sligo IT and a Certificate in Field Ecology from UCC.
Ailbhe holds a primary degree in Geography and Archaeology from the University of Galway and a Master’s in Conservation Behaviour from Atlantic Technological University. Passionate about conservation and biodiversity, she is particularly interested in both research-driven strategies for protecting ecosystems and engaging young people in these crucial topics from an early age. As a member of the Youth Leaders Alliance with the Mary Robinson Centre, Ailbhe has been actively involved in youth-led initiatives, panels and discussions on climate action and sustainability
I found the team excellent. They were very helpful and understanding