Dundalk to be represented in First Lego League competition for first time

Redeemer Boys’ National School Dundalk is to be the first school from Dundalk participating in the First Lego League initiative. First Lego League is a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths) initiative inviting children and young people to design, build and code Lego robots and to complete a series of missions.

The school was given the First Lego League kits through the Town Scientist programme last year. Town Scientist is the programme run by Dundalk native Dr Niamh Shaw which seeks to open the worlds of space and science to families and those who may not typically engage with the topics. The school’s participation is also thanks to support from Dundalk Credit Union and Engineers Ireland.

On Wednesday 17 February, the pupils held a showcase of their work to date and a celebration of their achievement in reaching the regional final which will take place in Dublin on 26 February. The theme for this year is “Unearthed”, which focuses on archaeology, and the pupils have also developed a research project along this theme.

Wednesday’s event was attended by Dr Niamh Shaw, Naomi O’Donoghue from Dundalk Credit Union, and Maryellen Kelledy from DkIT and Chairperson of Engineers Ireland North East Region. The pupils showcased their Lego robot which they designed, built and coded with the support of their teachers Niall McArdle and Majella Corrigan. The pupils have named their team Flaming Pythons and also designed their own t-shirts.  

Speaking yesterday, Dr Niamh Shaw, said: “I am blown away by the creativity and skill displayed by the students in developing their robot and research project. As a former pupil of the Redeemer Girls’ National School I am so proud to have the school involved.

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"I have been involved in the First LEGO League initiative for a number of years, having previously hosted the All-Ireland National Finals, and the programme is a great opportunity for pupils of all ages to develop their teamwork, design and coding skills through Lego, and most importantly, have fun while doing so.

“Town Scientist is delighted to have supported the teachers and school by bringing this initiative to them.  The boys of Redeemer National School are to be commended for being the first pupils from Dundalk to participate and to make the regional final - it is a huge achievement, and they have done us all very proud.”

Naomi O’Donoghue from Dundalk Credit Union said: “Dundalk Credit Union are proud Town Scientist partners and projects like the First LEGO League are what make Dr Niamh Shaw's contribution locally so special. Seeing the boy's determination and imagination creating and perfecting their Lego robot, 'Big Joe', was brilliant.

"It is an amazing way for young people to discover STEM in a way that is fun and develops their ability to solve problems, all while working as a team and growing their communication skills. We are incredibly proud to support Niamh and the Redeemer Boys’ School and wish them the very best of luck.”