Architects in Schools: Open Call for Schools 2026/27

Free and open to all second-level schools:
Participation in the Irish Architecture Foundation's Architects in Schools programme is open to all schools and Youthreach centres in the Republic of Ireland by application via this online form. There is no cost for your school to participate (apart from providing some art materials). 

Transition Year:
This programme for Transition Year students is creative, collaborative and participatory, providing an introduction to architecture and the design process. The programme is entering into its 14th annual cycle.

How it works:
If your school is offered a place, an architect will travel to your school to facilitate hands-on design workshops. Dates, times and workshop duration will be arranged directly between the designated teacher / TY coordinator and the assigned architect. Workshops must take place between September 2026 and March 2027.

Workshop structure:
12 hours of workshops per school, with an architect / architectural graduate. The hours can be divided up to suit the specific school and architect.

For example: 2 × 6hr, 3 × 4hr, 4 × 3hr, 6 × 2hr workshops. (To be arranged directly between the designated teacher / TY coordinator and the assigned architect.)

Funders:
Architects in Schools is funded by the Arts Council, the Department of Education and Youth, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage via the National Built Heritage Service, and the OPW.

Timelines:
Please complete the School Application Form below and submit it as soon as possible. Applications should be completed by 19 June 2026 to give your school the best chance of participating.

Please note that due to limited spaces on the programme, we cannot prioritise schools that have already participated a number of times, but please do apply anyway in case we can accommodate you. We always aim to reach a wide range of school types all over Ireland, so the geographical spread combined with the availability of architects nationwide will also determine the selection process.

Schools will hear back from the IAF in late August 2026 regarding the outcome of their application.

Any questions? Email: blaithin.quinn@iaf.ie

Lead image: Students from Donabate Community College, Co. Dublin at the Architects in Schools Exhibition and Exchange Day 2025. Photo by Myles Shelly.

Carousel: Architects in Schools workshops at Blessington Community College, Co. Wicklow (photos by Myles Shelly) and Drumshanbo Vocational School, Co. Leitrim (photos by Luke Brabazon).