Ardnagrath NS students shine bright at ESB Science Blast
Over 500 projects from primary schools around the country, including three schools from Westmeath were showcased at this year’s sixth annual ESB Science Blast, the RDS Foundation’s flagship Science and Technology Programme.
ESB Science Blast is a STEM-focused educational programme involving whole classes investigating the science behind simple questions.
The Dublin event took place over four days in RDS Simmonscourt, from March 4 to 7, and included a lá speisialta do Ghaelscoileanna agus do scoileanna Ghaeltachta.
Participating schools in Westmeath include Ardnagrath National School, Athlone, Scoil an Chlochair, Kilbeggan and Streamstown National School, Mullingar.
Pupils Ardnagrath NS, showcased an experiment and discussed their investigation with a STEM expert (Judge/Moltóir). Their school project investigated the science behind the question 'Are we funny to be spending too much money? Can we taste the difference?'.
The judging was non-competitive and aimed at growing pupils' interest and passion for STEM. Over 55,000 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 this year included climate change, biodiversity, the impact of fast fashion and questions related to physical and mental health.
The projects featured questions such as: How do optical illusions work?Rollercoasters, why don't we fall out? and Does a child's age directly impact their sporting skills?
Speaking at the event in RDS Simmonscourt, Niamh De Loughry, Deputy Chief Executive of the RDS Foundation, said: “It’s wonderful to see such a great turnout for our key Science and Technology Programme from primary schools across the length and breadth of Ireland including Westmeath.
"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 learning so much from the wild and wonderful projects that they’re showcasing here this week.
“I’m also delighted that we welcomed an even split of repeat attenders and ‘first timer’ primary schools to the RDS this year, with over a quarter of all Gaelscoileanna taking part in the dedicated day for Irish speaking schools, on 7th March.”
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.”
One of the largest science education programmes of its kind, 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.
It involves the whole class investigating the science behind a simple question and then showcasing their work at one of three annual events in Dublin, Limerick and Belfast.
Following the Dublin dates, ESB Science Blast will also take place in Limerick from May 21 to 23 and in Belfast on June 4.