Young science stars from Offaly light up ESB Science Blast Limerick

OVER 130 projects from 106 primary schools around the country, including Shinrone NS from Offaly, were showcased at this year’s sixth annual ESB Science Blast in Limerick, the RDS Foundation’s flagship Science and Technology Programme.

A STEM-focused educational programme involving whole classes investigating the science behind simple questions, this year’s event took place for the first time at the University of Limerick, from May 21st-23rd.

Pupils from Offaly showcased an experiment and discussed their investigation with a STEM expert (Judge/Moltóir). The judging was non-competitive and aimed at growing pupils' interest in and passion for STEM. Over 67,500 children have participated in ESB Science Blast to date, making it the largest primary school programme on the island of Ireland, and one of the largest programmes of its kind in Europe.

Strong themes emerging from schools at this year’s Limerick event centred on biodiversity, the impact of technology on physical and mental wellbeing, and questions focusing on sports and exercise.

Shinrone National School’s project featured the question, “Does music affect your sporting ability and if so, what music?”

Speaking at the event in the University of Limerick, Niamh De Loughry, Deputy Chief Executive of the RDS Foundation, said: “It’s wonderful to see such a great turnout here in Limerick for our key Science and Technology programme from primary schools across Ireland, including Offaly. In developing ESB Science Blast we wanted an event that would be informative, inclusive and, above all, a really fun and engaging learning experience. I’ve really enjoyed meeting the children from all around the country and hearing about their learning experience and the process behind it. It’s also great to connect with the teachers and understand how the programme supports in-class learning.

“We’re also delighted to welcome more Gaelscoileanna than ever before to Limerick, a 100% increase on last year, and to welcome back so many returning schools, proving how beneficial and enjoyable teachers and pupils find taking part in ESB Science Blast to be.”

Paddy Hayes, Chief Executive of ESB, added: “Every year ESB Science Blast brings STEM learning to schools in communities across Ireland and ESB is proud to work with the RDS on this unique initiative. Through the programme, children of all backgrounds and abilities are developing life skills that will help them to become innovative and creative problem solvers, as well as active, informed and engaged citizens. I always look forward to seeing the energy, the excitement, and the celebration of curiosity at ESB Science Blast.”

ESB Science Blast is a free and hands-on way to engage young learners with STEM, specifically designed for primary school and funded by the RDS Foundation through its Science and Technology Programme.