Carlow schools invited to enter Coillte Tree Week photo contest

IRELAND’S semi-state forestry company Coillte has called on primary schools across Carlow to submit a photo of their favourite tree or nature space ahead of national tree week 2026 for a chance to win a class trip to Beyond the Trees in Avondale, Co Wicklow.

This is the third national schools photography competition, which aims to encourage students to connect with nature and reflect on the importance of trees.

Schools can submit their entry up until noon on Tuesday 24 February, which consists of a photograph and brief explanation as to why the tree or outdoor space is meaningful to them.

National tree week, which celebrates the key role Ireland’s trees, forests and woodlands play in building a greener and more sustainable future, will take place from 8-15 March.

A total of four winners will be selected from each of the provinces.

Last year’s competition attracted hundreds of entries from across the country.

“The Coillte schools photography competition has proven really popular among schools right across the country in recent years,” Pat Neville, communications manager of Coillte, said.

“Initiatives like this are designed to encourage a deeper appreciation of trees and the natural world and to reflect on the benefits of forests for climate, nature, wood and people,” he added.

National tree week, an initiative of the Tree Council of Ireland and supported by Coillte, will feature a wide variety of free events across Ireland designed to inspire, educate and connect people of all ages to the importance and benefits of trees and forests.

To enter the competition, parents and teachers should upload the images and description, along with contact details, to the Coillte website or via the link https://www.coillte.ie/national-tree-week/