Recently, our 3rd Year History students enjoyed an engaging and educational trip to Collins Barracks in Dublin, home to the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History. The visit provided a valuable opportunity for students to bring their classroom learning to life and explore Ireland’s rich and complex past in a hands-on environment.
A key focus of the trip was Irish military history. Students explored a range of fascinating exhibits detailing Ireland’s involvement in conflicts at home and abroad, from the 1798 Rebellion through to more modern peacekeeping missions. The displays encouraged students to consider the experiences of soldiers, the evolution of military technology, and the broader social and political context of these events.
One of the highlights of the visit was seeing the famous Asgard boat. This historic vessel played a significant role in the Howth gun-running of 1914, when it was used to smuggle arms into Ireland for the Irish Volunteers. Standing before such an important artefact gave students a real sense of connection to the events they have studied in class.
Another memorable stop on the trip was the Natural History Museum, often affectionately referred to as the “Dead Zoo.” Here, students explored an extensive collection of preserved animals from Ireland and around the world. While slightly different from their usual history lessons, this visit sparked curiosity and provided a broader appreciation of how museums preserve and present knowledge.
To make the experience even more interactive, students were given a worksheet to complete as they made their way around the museum. The worksheet encouraged careful observation, critical thinking, and independent research. To add an extra element of excitement, a prize will be awarded for the best historical research, and students are eagerly awaiting the results.
Overall, the trip was a great success. It was both educational and enjoyable, giving students the chance to deepen their understanding of history while experiencing it firsthand. A big thank you to the teachers who organised the trip and to all students for their enthusiasm and excellent behaviour throughout the day.