As part of the National Access Plan (to 2028), IADT’s Access Service runs activities to help students before they start college (outreach) and supports them after they join. Traveller and Roma communities are among the groups most under-represented in higher education. Equality, diversity, and inclusion are central to IADT’s strategy. We aim to promote anti-racism and work closely with Traveller and Roma organisations, communities, and students.
This page explains the supports available for Traveller and Roma communities. It also shares some examples of our work. If you are a member of a Traveller or Roma community and want more information, please contact us. You can email us at access@iadt.ie.
Before College – Outreach Activities
- Meetings with Traveller and Roma organisations and schools
- Collaborative film and podcast projects
- Information sessions about higher education
- Promoting pathways to IADT for Traveller and Roma students
- Campus talks, tours, and workshops
After College Entry – Supports
- Scholarships and financial supports
- One-to-one student support
- Information about opportunities and bursaries
Examples of Our Work
The Wagon Project and Documentary
Southside Travellers Action Group, the HSE, and DLR CYPSC ran a project called The Wagon, where older Traveller men taught wagon building to younger generations to preserve cultural heritage. IADT film students documented the project, creating a short documentary that promotes Traveller culture and lifelong learning. It was screened at the Lexicon Theatre in 2024.
Watch the documentary: The Wagon (10 mins 40 secs)
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‘The Old Way’ Documentary
IADT graduate Daragh O’Shea worked with Traveller woman Nan O’Brien to create The Old Way, a short film about Traveller traditions and life over time. It will be submitted to film festivals before going online.
Celebrating Traveller Culture – Dublin Learning City Festival
Southside Traveller Action Group brought a traditional wagon to IADT during the festival in April 2024. The event welcomed the local Traveller community and celebrated culture through speeches, performances, crafts, and food.
In April 2025, IADT hosted Access & Inclusion On Show at Carnegie Library, featuring Traveller voices and performances.
St Kieran’s National School ‘Travellers Tales’ Podcast
IADT partnered with St Kieran’s National School in Bray for a podcast project with IADT TV and media students. Children learned technical and storytelling skills and built a positive link with higher education.
Listen to the podcast: Travellers Tales
IADT students involved: Adelicia Boakye Yiadom, Shane Lambert & Viktorija Volkova.
Pathways to IADT
Specific entry routes for Traveller and Roma applicants:
IADT also participates in the national HEAR scheme.
Find out more at IADT HEAR Scheme and Access College.
Financial Supports
Traveller and Roma students can apply for:
- IADT hardship fund and scholarships (contact access@iadt.ie)
- Student Assistance Fund
- Student Accommodation Assistance Fund
- The 1916 Bursary Grant (for first-year students)
Funding for this work comes from the Higher Education Authority (HEA) through the Dormant Account Fund.
Contact Us
Email: access@iadt.ie.
