Dowra: Woodcarving Summer School Success

As part of the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), Cavan County Local Development (CCLD) has been proud to support an inspiring initiative bringing creativity, skill-building, and community spirit to Dowra.

Since 2023, in partnership with Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB), we’ve been running woodcarving classes at Dowra Men's Shed, creating a welcoming space for learning, craftsmanship, and connection.

This June and July, that partnership reached new heights with the launch of a Woodcarving Summer School, generously funded by the REACH Programme of CMETB.

Under the expert guidance of tutor Joey Burns, the participants—many of whom began as complete beginners—have developed impressive skills and produced outstanding pieces of work. The transformation over the weeks has been nothing short of inspiring, with each participant showcasing growing confidence, creativity, and craftsmanship.

Beyond the individual achievements, the summer school has fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and pride within the group—demonstrating the power of community learning and the importance of inclusive access to education and skills development.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to CMETB for their continued support through the REACH Programme, to Joey Burns for his patient mentorship, and to the Dowra Men's Shed for providing such a vibrant and supportive setting.

These projects are a testament to what can be achieved when communities are supported to grow, learn, and thrive—one carving at a time.