Young science stars from Offaly light up ESB Science Blast in Limerick

Shinrone NS in Offaly was among a group of 106 primary schools around the country which recently took part in the sixth annual ESB Science Blast in Limerick.

The Science Blast event is the RDS Foundation’s flagship Science and Technology Programme.

A STEM-focused (science, technology, engineering, and maths) 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 21-23.

Shinrone National School's project explored the question, "Does music affect your sporting ability and if so, what music?"

The Offaly pupils 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 event centred on biodiversity, the impact of technology on physical and mental wellbeing, and questions focusing on sports and exercise.

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."

Following the Limerick dates, ESB Science Blast will also take place in Belfast on June 4 next.