Tuam babies movie to be shown to Cork students as part of film festival programme

Cork students are to gain an exclusive insight from award-winning director Frank Berry with the news that Irish film  The Lost Children of Tuam will headline the Cork International Film Festival (CIFF) schools programme 2026.

Taking place from Monday November 16 to Friday 20, the event offers students across Cork the opportunity to engage with film as a powerful tool for learning, discussion and creative expression.

A key highlight of the programme this year, the film will be presented as part of the Junior Cycle history curriculum.

With the story of the Tuam mother and baby institution featuring prominently in national news, the screening will offer students an opportunity to engage with this important chapter of Irish history through film.

Director Frank Berry will introduce the film, giving students a unique opportunity to hear directly from the filmmaker and to gain insight into the process of bringing this story to the screen.

The CIFF programme 2026 also features Cinespark, a free dedicated film and education day, designed to encourage critical thinking and spark creativity. The event will welcome a line up of special guests, including award winning Cork filmmaker Brendan Canty ( Christy, Gealtra) offering students the opportunity to explore filmmaking and learn from those working in the industry.

Also included on the line-up is Aeráid, supported by ESB energy for generations, a free youth film and climate action event exploring climate action and sustainable development through cinema. 

The event encourages young audiences to engage with environmental issues and consider the practical role they can play in shaping a more sustainable future.

For further information on the Cork International Film Festival schools programme, see www.corkfilmfest.org.