Longford students to explore the curiosity that lies at the heart of science

Students across Longford are in for a treat as explorer and space enthusiast Dr Niamh Shaw hosts a series of workshops  as part of Science Week.

Science Week takes places this November and includes a wide range of activities facilitated by Midlands Science in Longford, Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath.

Activities start in the midlands with a family fun day with everything from  astronomy to zoology on November 10th. Over one week, there’s a range of events  for schools and groups and for adults exploring everything from cold water swimming to cats and all events are free of charge.

Jackie Gorman, CEO of Midlands Science explained ; “this year we are delighted as part of our science week programming to bring a range of activities to schools, groups and communities. It’s great to welcome back Ice Swimming Guinness World Record Holder Nuala Moore and new speakers such as Gerry Creighton of the tv series The Zoo and Dr Clare Meade of The Cat Hospital.

"Science is important for our economy but it’s also an important part of our lives. It’s in everything from how we understand health and lifestyle decisions to understanding our pets.”

Events in Longford this year include a series of workshops with explorer and space enthusiast Dr Niamh Shaw with secondary school students. From Antarctica to NASA, Niamh’s boundless enthusiasm for all things scientific make her a powerful advocate for the curiosity which lies at the heart of science.

Dr Niamh Shaw has undertaken a wide range of science outreach activities in the midlands over the past number of years.

Events in Westmeath include a special event with the National Museum of Ireland exploring the world of swifts, those amazing aerial acrobats who have been recorded in high numbers recently in Mullingar. The event will also include prizes for primary school drawings and local community groups who are involved in biodiversity actions which benefits swifts and other wildlife.

A special science map of the midlands is being produced by Midlands Science with Dr Claire O’Connell and will include places and people of interest from each county related to science. The map will be available across the region and is free of charge. Pop-up activities such as events exploring optical illusions will also take place in local shopping centres. Events are all free of charge but must be booked in advance and all details are available on www.midlandsscience.ie