After the great success of the inaugural RDS Primary Science Fair Limerick at MIC (Mary Immaculate College) in 2016, the RDS Primary Science Fair returns to Limerick this Friday, January 19, with twice the capacity. Running until Sunday, January 21, three thousand primary school children will exhibit their STEM project (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) at the RDS Primary Science Fair Limerick at MIC.
Speaking in advance of the Fair, Michael Duffy, RDS Chief Executive, said: “The expansion of the RDS Primary Science Fair to Limerick last year was a great success, and we are delighted that capacity has doubled at Mary Immaculate College after just one year. We were given a great welcome by the people, primary students and teachers of Limerick in 2016, and were delighted to find a city that shares the RDS ambition of seeing Ireland thrive culturally and economically.”
Last year the Fair also proved very popular with visitors – Saturday being a complete sell-out at the MIC venue. This year there is a host of new science-themed entertainment for all the family, beginning at 10.00am, so arriving early is recommended.
Independent research carried out in 2016 found the Fair to be unique on an international level through its methodology of whole-class, child-led approach to primary school STEM learning; this study also found that multi-annual participation has lasting impact at student, teacher and school levels.
Conn Murray Chief Executive of Limerick City and County Council said: “Limerick City and County Council is delighted to welcome the RDS Primary Science Fair to Limerick for the second year in a row. The Fair is a wonderful starting-off point for pupils who have an interest in maths, science and engineering. These are the subjects that will be very important in attracting jobs to Limerick in the years to come and it’s great that we have been able to help build the foundations.”
Independent evaluation of the Fair shows that 97% of students feel participation improves their science skills; that 80% of students feel their maths has improved through participation; that the Fair acts as an informal STEM continuous professional development opportunity for teachers; that almost all parents discussed the students’ STEM project or ideas related to the project at home; and that the Fair has a significant positive impact on students’ confidence, social skills, teamwork, and communication, in addition to equipping them with science skills.
The RDS Primary Science Fair Limerick at MIC takes place from Thursday January 19 to Saturday January 21, open from 10.00am to 3.00pm with last entries at 1.30pm. Tickets, available on the door, are just €3 per child, €8 per adult and €15 for a family of two adults and two children. Further information see www.rds.ie/priarysciencefair.
