Dundalk schools embrace circular economy through Toy Library outreach pilot
Carrickmacross Toy Library is Ireland’s first standalone toy library and serves as the hub/model facility for Toy Libraries Ireland
Primary school children in Dundalk and cross the North-East are leading the way in sustainability, thanks to a successful outreach initiative that is putting the circular economy into action in classrooms.
A pilot programme by Carrickmacross Toy Library reached 484 pupils in 14 schools across Counties Louth, Monaghan, Cavan and Tipperary, where children learned not only about the importance of play, but how the toys they use every day connect to bigger environmental issues. Dundalk schools that took part in the pilot included St. Brigid’s, Dundalk; Oliver Plunkett, Blackrock; and Kilkerley National School.
At the heart of the workshops was a simple but powerful idea: keeping resources in use for as long as possible. Through interactive discussions and hands-on activities, children explored what happens to toys when they are thrown away, how long materials take to break down, and how reusing, repairing and sharing can significantly reduce waste.
Pupils were challenged to rethink “rubbish,” transforming cardboard boxes and everyday household items into imaginative creations such as rockets, pirate ships and gadgets. In doing so, they experienced the principles of the circular economy first-hand—designing, reusing and repurposing materials rather than discarding them.
Teachers say the workshops made a lasting impression. One teacher noted that the programme “really made the children think about how and why they should look after their toys,” while another said it “raised awareness of reusing and recycling in a very real and engaging way.”
Others highlighted how the activities encouraged children to consider the environmental impact of buying new toys and to explore more sustainable alternatives.
Alongside sustainability, the initiative reinforced the value of play in children’s development. Schools were invited to adopt a “Play Pledge,” committing to increased opportunities for free, unstructured play.
From “no homework – just play” nights to dedicated “Drop Everything and Play” sessions, schools have already begun embedding these changes into daily life.
The workshops were designed to be inclusive and accessible, engaging children of all abilities and backgrounds, including DEIS schools and pupils with additional needs.
Feedback from teachers has been overwhelmingly positive, with the vast majority rating the workshops as excellent and praising their relevance to both environmental education and classroom learning.
Many reported that the experience has influenced their teaching, particularly in integrating sustainability into subjects such as STEM, art and SPHE.
Demand for the programme continues to grow, with a waiting list of schools already in place. It is hoped that additional funding can be secured to expand the pilot and allow more schools to take part in the coming year.
The initiative was made possible through the generous support of Kingspan, via their Planet Passionate programme, a 10-year sustainability programme that aims to impact on climate change, circularity and protection of our natural world.
Holly Loughman, Head of Sustainability at Kingspan Groups said: “Through our Planet Passionate Communities Fund, we are proud to support initiatives that deliver meaningful local impact. Carrickmacross Toy Library is helping children experience the concept of circularity in a hands-on, engaging way, and we are delighted to play a part in such a unique and inspiring project.”
Jill Kennon, CEO of Carrickmacross Toy Library said: “This project shows that the circular economy isn’t just a concept—it’s something children can understand, experience and lead. By rethinking how we use and value toys, they are learning habits that can last a lifetime.”
With sustainability high on the agenda for schools and communities alike, Carrickmacross Toy Library hopes to build on this success and continue inspiring the next generation to think differently about waste, resources and play.
For further information and to be included on the workshop waiting list, email [email protected].