Seamus Heaney brought to book for future generations of children

The poetry of the late Bellaghy born Nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney is being introduced to pupils through a new education programme.

The programme has recently been launched at HomePlace.

Heaney’s poetry will act as a catalyst to explore science, history and creative writing.

It’s hoped to engage a new generation.

Seamus Heaney’s three granddaughters took part in a tree planting ceremony to mark the continuation of his legacy.

Aibhín, Síofra and Anna Rose travelled to Seamus Heaney HomePlace in Bellaghy to plant birch, ash and oak trees in the grounds of the building.

It’s home to an interactive exhibition, full of personal stories, photographs and artefacts, as well as an events space for readings, poetry, talks, music and drama.

Seamus Heaney wrote poems for each of his grandchildren, ‘Route 110’ for Anna Rose, ‘In Time’ for Síofra, his last published poem, and ‘A Kite for Aibhín’, which will be the first poem schools will explore.

Son Michael Heaney says as an educator and a proud grandfather, his father would have been delighted to see his granddaughters marking this occasion and maintaining the family connection with Bellaghy down the generations.

Pupils from the six primary schools in the area - St. Mary’s PS, Bellaghy PS, St John Bosco PS, Anahorish PS, New Row PS and Castledawson PS - also took part in the ceremony by planting snowdrop bulbs around the base of each of the tress.

The next theme the education programme will explore will be Churning Day and events taking place include World Book Day, World Poetry Day and Literacy Legacy Week.

Here's Education Officer at Seamus Heaney Homeplace, Sheila Fullerton: