Teaching Tradition: 95% of Adults Say Heritage Education is Important for Children

New research commissioned by specialist insurer Ecclesiastical Ireland, proudly part of the Benefact Group, has revealed that 95% of adults in a nationally representative survey believe learning about Irish heritage in school is essential. Teaching children about heritage, heritage sites, arts, and culture from an early age opens them to a wealth of creativity while also creating a shared sense of community.  

The research also revealed:

• 94% of respondents believe it's important for schoolchildren in Ireland to learn about Ireland’s history, language, and cultural heritage
• More than 3 in 4 adults (79%) would support more funding for schools to organise heritage-related experiences for students
• Almost one in every two (46% of respondents) would be in favour of state-funded access to museums and heritage sites nationwide for schoolchildren across the country
• Almost half (48%) of adults believe more frequent school trips to historical sites, museums, and cultural landmarks would be the most effective way to help schoolchildren feel more connected to culture.

As generations evolve and grow, so does the way in which we teach our younger people. On-site learning about heritage is hugely important as it can put into perspective for children the ways in which we are connected to our past and the foundations of our culture. This research also highlights how limited access and pricing of heritage sites and centres can sometimes pose an issue for parents and teachers alike.

Almost one in every two people (46% of respondents) stated that a state-funded “Heritage Passport” scheme, giving students free access to museums and heritage sites nationwide, is something they would most like to see offered to schoolchildren across the country. With increased funding and support, schemes such as this can be a great opportunity for heritage and culture studies to become more engrained into school curriculum. This will also reinforce the message that Ireland is a country where rich cultural heritage meets a deep-rooted spirit of welcome—inviting all to connect with its history, people, and sense of belonging.

David Lane, Managing Director of Ecclesiastical Ireland said: “Learning about Ireland’s arts and heritage helps us to understand and appreciate the communities we live in. This research clearly shows that people in Ireland place enormous value on teaching heritage in schools—not just to preserve history, but to build cultural identity, pride, and a stronger sense of community. In today’s classrooms, heritage education plays a vital role in creating shared understanding and a deeper connection to arts and culture across all ages. At Ecclesiastical Ireland, proudly part of the Benefact Group, we’re proud to support initiatives that ensure future generations feel connected to our rich heritage and culture.”

For more information on Ecclesiastical’s education insurance offering, please visit this link.