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UCD Naughton Joyce Centre
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The Edna O’Brien Young Writers Bursary FAQs

The Edna O’Brien Young Writers Bursary FAQs

Who can apply?

Young people aged between 15 and 17 years old who, if selected to take part, are free, willing and committed to joining us for the week-long immersive experience. We are not looking for experienced writers, we are looking for writers with a passion for words and willingness to be part of the collaborative learning environment both online and onsite, 17th – 21st July, 2023.

Can previous Bursary winners apply again?

No. Previous Bursary winners will not be awarded a place on the week-long bursary. If, however, you were shortlisted and received a place on the day-long masterclass in 2020, 2021 or 2022, you can apply for a place on the week-long Bursary this year if you are still within the age range.

When is the closing date?

Tuesday 7th March, 2023, at 10pm.

Where will the workshops take place? 

Where possible, we will host many of the workshops onsite at the museum in Dublin, as well as online.

Are the students supervised at all times during their stay?

Yes. Students will be supervised during their stay in MoLI.  All staff are Garda Vetted and programming, events and practices are delivered in line with our Child Protection Policy. We also have a Digital Safeguarding Statement that you can check out here.

Are all staff and supervisors Garda Vetted? 

Yes. All staff are trained and vetted as per the museum’s Child Protection Policy.

How will the students get from home to the museum?

When awarded the Bursary, we will pay for travel costs to and from Dublin (from within the island of Ireland).

Are all meals provided?

Yes. Once a student is offered a place on the Bursary, we will cater, as best we can, to their dietary needs.

Should students bring money with them?

We will cover the cost of travel and meals as part of the Bursary. If students would like to bring some spending money for other/extra costs, they can do so.

Who is on the judging panel? 

The judging panel is composed of representatives from UCD, MoLI and the National Library of Ireland.

Who chooses the mentor? 

Our first mentor was chosen by Edna O’Brien. Each mentor then nominates three writers for consideration for the following year and the adjudication team select the mentor from the list. 

Will the Bursary be happening again next year? 

Through a generous donation, the Bursary will be happening every year at MoLI.

When will I find out if I received a place on the Bursary?

We will contact all applicants via email regarding the outcome of their application on Tuesday 16th May, 2023. Judges decisions are final. 

If I have any more questions, can I contact someone about my queries?

Yes, contact [email protected]

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