Mayo schools shine a STEMtacular with standout innovation and creativity

On Wednesday, February 25 and 26, Ballinmore held STEMacular, hosting over 1,000 students in celebration of science, technology, engineering, and maths. 

The event welcomed more than 50 schools from 11 counties and showcased over 200 student projects.

Students tackled real-world challenges across renewable energy, biodiversity, engineering, agriculture, health, climate science and technology. 

Judges from industry and education travelled from across Ireland to meet the young innovators, spending time at every stand discussing ideas and offering encouragement. While the standard of work was exceptionally high, it was the clarity, depth of understanding and enthusiasm of the students that stood out most.

Schools from Mayo made a particularly strong impression. Newport NS presented imaginative and practical projects, including “Underground Rugby,” “Window Protector,” “The Black Oak Cleaner 1.0,” and the award-winning “B.F.C Bird Feeding Community,” which explored biodiversity and the importance of supporting local bird populations.

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Killasser NS captured attention with “Are You Faster Than a Calculator?”, a lively investigation into mental maths and reaction speed, while St Attracta’s NS, Ballaghaderreen, showcased “Shake It Off!”, examining the science behind movement and physical response. 

STEMtacular, powered by Analog Devices, was founded by Leitrim science teacher Louise Gallagher after she recognised a lack of accessible, high-quality STEM opportunities for young people in the region. What began as a response to that gap has grown into one of Ireland’s largest primary-level STEM gatherings.

“It’s great to see so many young people interested and engaged in STEM,” she said. “Not every child gets the chance to see industry, innovation and technology up close, so bringing it here to Ballinamore makes a real difference. It’s really important that we provide these opportunities in our region so that no matter where a child lives, they can access high-quality STEM experiences and see a future for themselves in it.”

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