Titanic Belfast Announces Increase To School Transport Bursary

TITANIC Belfast is expanding its School Transport Bursary for the 2026/27 academic year, giving more children than ever the opportunity to travel for free to the world-leading visitor attraction.

Applications are now open, with the number of participating schools increasing to 20, adding five schools to the total that will be selected within a 30-mile radius of Belfast.

Funded through Titanic Belfast’s Community Impact Fund and delivered in partnership with McComb’s Coach Travel, the bursary helps remove financial barriers that prevent schools from accessing educational visits and cultural learning experiences.

Now entering its fourth year, the scheme has supported more than 1,800 pupils since launching in 2023, giving children the opportunity to take part in Titanic Belfast’s educational programme.  

Schools that meet the criteria are those eligible for The Department of Education's Extended Schools Programme, which supports schools serving the most disadvantaged communities in Northern Ireland. Applications are open until Monday 22^nd June with visits set to take place between October 2026 and March 2027.

Judith Owens MBE, Chief Executive of Titanic Belfast said: “Expanding the bursary from 15 to 20 schools means even more young people will have the opportunity to experience Titanic Belfast and engage with learning outside the classroom. We know that school budgets continue to face significant pressure, particularly around transport costs, so this initiative is about ensuring access to educational experiences that inspire curiosity, creativity and connection to our shared history. We’re proud to continue investing in programmes that support schools and benefit local communities.”

Caroline McComb, Director of McComb’s Coach Travel added: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Titanic Belfast on such an important initiative. Educational visits like these can leave a lasting impression on young people and it’s fantastic to help make those opportunities more accessible for schools and pupils who may otherwise miss out.”

Titanic Belfast offers school visits throughout the academic year, including self-guided and guided tours of the Titanic Experience. Interactive workshops are also available including Get The Message, which was reimagined for 2025 and Solve The Case where students step back into the Edwardian era, to uncover the story of passengers on board Titanic. 

The attraction has also developed a full programme of resources and activities for classes to use before, during and after their visit.

To view the full entry criteria or to apply for the School Transport Bursary teachers can visit titanicbelfast.com/schooltransport by Monday 22^nd June 2026.