Living in the country, it’s easy to overlook the abundance of natural beauty around us.

I grew up near a beach in Ballyheigue, Co Kerry, but was completely ignorant of coastal wildlife. As for the hedgerows that lined the roads, my knowledge of foraging ended at blackberry picking in September.

Though generations past had a keen knowledge of the country habitat, many of us lost that link with nature. However, one Clare woman is hoping to resurrect that connection.

When Carmel Madigan’s young son James starting asking questions about the flora and fauna they found on their walks around Loop Head, she started to research the local area. This resulted in a number of books, followed by the launch of her summer hedge school last year.

“There’s much more to Loop Head than a lighthouse,” says Carmel. “I wanted to show people that.”

Many of us are familiar with the Penal hedge schools, which were popular in rural areas when Catholic schools were abolished. Though Carmel’s classes also take place outdoors, the focus is on local coastal and shoreline habitats, flora, fauna, art and creative writing, instead of the three Rs (reading, writing and arithmetic). The school is returning this year from July to August.

The classes begin with a guided rocky shore exploration at Ross beach near Kilbaha, followed by a guided botanical and history walk and indoor workshops. Longer programmes encompassing art making and philosophy are also available.

Wellies in tow, I travelled to west Clare to explore Ross beach with Carmel.

“I grew up here but didn’t know much about the beach,” she confesses. “The generation before me had a great knowledge of the wildlife.”

I am immediately struck by the vibrant green sea grass growing on the rocks. In fact, the entire beach is full of colour.

“This place is untouched,” explains Carmel. “Which is a good thing, but that means it can be forgotten about.”

She shows sea lettuce that her parents would have eaten years before, and the limpets that were harvested during the Famine.

Her knowledge of the shore is impressive – from knowing exactly where to find crabs to the lifespan of sea creatures (some can live for decades) – but her teaching style is relaxed and fun.

When the outdoor portion of the school is finished, Carmel brings the class to her tea room, which is prettily decorated with her artwork and delicate china, and contrasts with the wildness of west Clare. It’s a nice place to take stock of the day.

Carmel also makes herbal brew using foraged leaves, which is miles better than the green tea you’ll find in shops.

Though I really enjoyed the hedge school, I probably won’t become an expert forager or intrepid explorer. What I have learned is that it pays to take a closer look at the countryside that some of us have taken for granted.

Carmel’s hedge school takes place from 11 July to 17 August.

For bookings, a list of classes, and to find out more about Carmel’s books and artwork, visit www.carmelmadigangallery.com/hedgescheventbooking or call 086-819-7726. CL