Maths Week
Our school actively celebrates Maths Week each year through a variety of fun, engaging and interactive activities designed to promote a positive attitude towards mathematics.
Throughout the week, students take part in maths games, puzzles, problem-solving challenges, quizzes and practical activities that encourage logical thinking and creativity. Maths Week provides opportunities for pupils to explore maths in enjoyable and real-life contexts while developing confidence in their mathematical abilities.
Science Week
Our school enthusiastically participates in Science Week Ireland each year by engaging students in a range of exciting and hands-on STEM activities. Science Week encourages curiosity, exploration, and discovery while helping children develop an interest in science and technology.
Throughout the week, students take part in experiments, investigations, science challenges and interactive learning experiences that promote problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. These activities allow pupils to apply scientific concepts in practical and enjoyable ways.
Vex Robotics
The VEX Robotics primary school competition is a STEM-based robotics programme where students work in teams to design, build, and programme robots to complete a series of challenges and tasks. Using VEX robotics kits, pupils develop practical engineering and coding skills in a fun, hands-on learning environment. The VEX Robotics competition is run for primary schools by Offaly County Council, with 5th and 6th Class students from St Mary’s NS participating.
The competition encourages students to think creatively, solve problems, and work collaboratively as they test and improve their robot designs. Through participation, children develop important skills such as teamwork, communication, resilience and critical thinking.
BRICS – Lego Spike
3rd and 4th Class students recently participated in the BRICS (Building a Real-World Integrated Curriculum in STEM) Project in conjunction with Oide, DCU, TUS and Athlone Education Centre. This project involved teachers and children from 14 primary schools in the Midlands region – including St Mary’s NS – and aimed to engage children from 3rd to 6th class in real-world integrated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning.
Students used programmable LEGO Education robotic materials called Lego Spike, to foster confidence, curiosity and criticality in children while addressing real-world challenges. The project culminated in a showcase in TUS Athlone where the students had to opportunity to share their learning with their peers along with teachers and students from other schools in the Midlands.
Curious Minds STEM Awards
Our school has participated in the Curious Minds STEM Awards, winning a gold plaque on multiple occasions. This programme encourages students to explore science, technology, engineering, and maths through fun, hands-on learning experiences.
