McCracken Cultural Society

This particular scheme provides an opportunity for pupils between the ages of 11 and 18 to achieve an accredited award for their level of competence in spoken Irish. Why not be part of this development? Study a language which will broaden your horizons, heighten cultural awareness and also be a valuable educational qualification.

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The McCracken Summer School is a week long Irish-language festival which takes place each year at the end of July in north Belfast. July's programme, one of the highlights of the Gaelic calender features numerous events including Irish-language classes, drama, dance, live music, tin-whistle and art workshops, multicultural day and Food Fayre, Summer Camp for teenagers and much more. McCracken Summer School 2010 - 26th JULY - 1st AUGUST 2010

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Ó óige go neart (prospering from youth) is a scheme implemented by the McCracken Cultural Society and delivers Irish-language lessons for primary school pupils throughout north Belfast. Niall Mathews, Irish-language Development Officer of the McCracken Cultural Society is responsible for directing the programme. In total, 9 local primary schools receive weekly lessons in their native tongue. The aim of the scheme is to make learning Irish as much fun as possible and to encourage pupils from ages 7-12 to use whatever Irish they have both inside and outside of the classroom.

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A major advantage of the scheme is that 50% funding is provided to businesses which use a bilingual version or a full Irish-language version of the enterprise’s name/business type or funding towards other materials such as menus, stationary, packaging, marketing materials etc. Not only does the scheme enhance the visibility of Irish, it can attract tourists to the area who have a keen interest in language and culture.

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