Lifelong Learning
Belfast as a Learning City
Belfast became a Learning City in 2015, marking a city a city-wide commitment to lifelong learning. This commitment was further strengthened in 2018 when Belfast joined the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities and achieved official Learning City status. This international recognition reflects Belfast’s belief that learning is essential, not just in school but throughout life and across all parts of society. Learning helps tackle inequalities and improve outcomes for individuals and communities across the city. By sharing skills and ideas, everyone can take the next step in their learning journey.
In Belfast, the Learning City initiative is a key commitment within the Belfast Agenda, the city’s strategic community plan. This strategy guides the actions of partner organisations across the city, helping public service providers work together to improve the lives of local people.
Belfast Learning Festival
The Belfast Learning Festival is a celebration of learning in all its forms. It brings together individuals, organisations and communities to explore new ideas, build connections and discover just how much learning is happening across the city every day.
The Belfast Learning Festival:
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- brings learning into everyday spaces like parks, libraries, museums and community centres,
- opens doors to our universities and colleges,
- creates inclusive and welcoming opportunities for people or all ages and background, and
- promotes wellbeing, connection and curiosity through shared learning experiences across the city.
The most recent festival took place in April 2025 with the theme ‘Creating Connections’. Schools, community organisations, cultural venues and employers all came together to showcase the many ways we can learn, offering over 100 free lessons and activities. Events and workshops included podcasting, juggling, sewing and cooking.
If you are interested in hosting an event or supporting the festival, email belfastlearningcity@belfastcity.gov.uk