Education Minister joins hundreds of pupils for interactive science demo

Education Minister John O’Dowd has joined hundreds of pupils at Cullybackey College Ballymena for a morning of interactive science and technology.

The annual IN-O-V8 event, hosted by Cullybackey College pupils and teachers, brings together local Ballymena primary schools, as they work together to develop their skills in science, technology, engineering and maths.

During the morning pupils can make elephant toothpaste, walk on egg shells and make rainbows; they can also attend technology workshops involving electronics and make a battery powered torch. There will also be special science shows from W5’s Sue McGrath.

Speaking during his visit to the IN-O-V8 event, Education Minister John O’Dowd said:

“Today’s IN-O-V8 event will undoubtedly inspire and encourage our youngest pupils as they move on to the next stage in their education. All of the schools taking part today, and in particular, host Cullybackey College, are clearly demonstrating the added value for all our young people when schools come together to share their learning. It is also an opportunity for local primary school pupils to sample what life at post primary can be like.

“The uptake of STEM subjects continues to grow and with the range of exciting and interesting jobs in this sector, studying these subjects provides a wealth of opportunity whether that is building aeroplanes, creating computer games or working as a scientist.”

The Minister concluded:

“I am delighted to see such a wonderful turnout and would like to congratulate Cullybackey College in hosting such an interesting and inspiring event.”

Commenting on the day, Cullybackey College Principal David Donaldson said:

“I am delighted at how successful our third IN-O-V8 event has been today. Our aim is to show that learning, particularly in the context of STEM, can be fun and I think the response of the 740 P7 pupils shows we have achieved that. I am indebted to the support and interest of our feeder Primary School Principals and staff; the work of my own staff and outside bodies in making this event happen; and, of course, Mr O’Dowd, our special guest, for taking time out of his busy schedule to attend and endorse the work we are doing at Cullybackey College.”

Notes to editors: 

1. The Department of Education’s ‘Education Works’ campaign promotes the value of education. This year’s campaign aims to ensure that parents have information on schooling and that they are aware of the steps they can take to ‘Get Involved’ and support their teenager in achieving good outcomes at school. Watch out for the ads on television, radio and outdoor locations. The campaign highlights the vital role families can play in helping children do well at school and improve their life chances. Visit nidirect - Education Works for more information or watch the TV ad on the Department’s YouTube channel.

2. See photos from the Department of Education in our Flickr collection.

3. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 99 715 440, and your call will be returned.

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