Mayo schools recognised for their STEM work in the 2016/17 year

THE Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Frances Fitzgerald, has announced the primary schools in Mayo that have received a Science Foundation Ireland Discover Science and Maths Award.

The programme aims to increase interest in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) among primary school students and teachers.

The 17 recipient schools from Mayo are: Tavneena NS; Corballa NS; Newtownwhite ETNS, Scoil Néifinn NS; Attymass NS; St. John's NS; Carracastle Central NS; Culleens NS; St. Joseph's NS; St. Attracta's NS, Charlestown; Gaelscoil na Cruaiche; St. Feichín's NS, Cross; Barnacogue NS; Cloonlyon NS; Scoil Naomh Bríd; Scoil Náisiúnta an Inbhir (Inver NS); and Scoil Náisiúnta Corrchloch.

The awards recognise the achievements of children and teachers in the application of STEM in their classrooms. To qualify, schools are required to keep a log of STEM activities that they have undertaken throughout the academic year and which involved the whole school.

Schools are awarded credit for visiting Discover Science centres, carrying out their own experiments, using digital technology and maths, going on STEM-related field trips, hosting visits from scientists and engineers, and holding a science open day in the school.

Commenting on the Discover Science and Maths Awards, Dr. Ruth Freeman, director of strategy and communications at Science Foundation Ireland, said: “Science Foundation Ireland is committed to making STEM accessible to all, so encouraging students, particularly girls, to engage with science and maths in a fun and interactive way early on is key.

“I commend these teachers for their passion and commitment to STEM and congratulate them on achieving the award for their school.”

For more information about the Discover Science and Maths Awards and the DPSM programme, visit www.primaryscience.ie.