Young science stars from Mayo light up ESB Science Blast

Several Mayo schools have had their projects featured in ESB’s science blast.

Taking place in Limerick, over 130 projects from 106 primary schools around the country were showcased at the sixth annual ESB Science Blast in Limerick, the RDS Foundation’s flagship Science and Technology Programme. 

The event is a STEM-focused educational programme involving whole classes investigating the science behind simple questions.

Pupils from Mayo showcased an experiment and discussed their investigation with a STEM expert (Judge/Moltóir). 

_{Pupils and teachers from Kinaffe NS, Swinford (Photo: Liam Burke/Press 22)}

Participating schools from Mayo included Gaelscoil Rafteirí, Castlebar, Crossmolina NS, Scoil NS Tourmakeady, and Kinaffe NS, Swinford. 

The judging was non-competitive and aimed at growing pupils' interest in and passion for STEM.

Speaking at the event in the University of Limerick, Niamh De Loughry, Deputy Chief Executive of the RDS Foundation, called the numbers turned-out at the event ‘wonderful’.

“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.

She continued: “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.” 

_{Pupils from Scoil NS, Tourmakeady (Photo: Eamon Ward)}

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 that emerged from this year’s Limerick event centred on biodiversity, the impact of technology on physical and mental wellbeing, and questions focusing on sports and exercise.

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,” he concluded.

For more information, visit the ESB Science Blast website or follow on Instagram, Facebook, or X.