Leitrim Science Fair opens a fund to help schools overcome rising transport costs
The Leitrim-based science fair is now trying to help schools access the event
Now heading into its fourth year, STEMtacular has gone from strength to strength, becoming Ireland’s third-biggest science fair, with national schools from all around the country heading to Ballinamore to enter projects and experience the scientific exhibits that are on show.
Organisers have announced that this year they will run the STEMtacular Access Fund to help Primary schools overcome rising transport costs.
The new Access Fund, supported by the Irish American Partnership, will help primary schools with the cost of travelling to STEMtacular 2027.
The new fund was established in response to one of the challenges increasingly facing schools wishing to take part in the educational event.
While STEMtacular, which runs each February, is free for schools to attend, the cost of hiring a bus, particularly for schools travelling longer distances, can still create a significant barrier to schools that might wish to participate.
“The whole reason for STEMtacular is to bring these things more accessible for schools and kids, and it's just one more step towards that,” said Louise Gallagher, founder and organiser of the event.
“We are very conscious of rising transport costs and the pressure that places on schools. STEMtacular is free to attend, but free entry doesn't necessarily mean that there is no financial barrier.
“We never want a child to miss out on an opportunity simply because of where they live or the cost involved in getting there. STEMtacular was established to bring high-quality STEM experiences closer to children in rural and regional communities.”
Through the Irish American Partnership Access Fund, eligible schools attending STEMtacular 2027 will receive a contribution towards their transport costs; support will be allocated according to factors such as distance.
Gallagher thanked the Irish-American Partnership for their support.
The event is open to primary school students between 2nd and 6th class who develop and present their own STEM projects to a panel of judges before getting the opportunity to explore the STEMtacular Discovery Zone, meeting and interacting with scientists, engineers and organisations working across a broad range of STEM areas.
The event has continued to grow, starting out in a single classroom to a two-day event taking up the Community Sports Hall in Ballinamore. Last year's event also included a dedicated Special Class category and sensory supports helping to ensure that as many children as possible can participate and enjoy the experience.
STEMtacular 2027 will take place in Ballinamore on Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 February 2027.