Northern Ireland’s classrooms are more than places of learning - they are the starting point for tomorrow’s innovators. Helping to spark that journey is ESB Science Blast, a free, non-competitive STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) programme delivered as part of the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) Science and Technology Programme, with ESB as title sponsor.
Designed for Key Stage 2 pupils, ESB Science Blast encourages whole classes to investigate the science behind a simple question, turning curiosity into hands-on discovery while developing essential life skills.
“It’s widely accepted that early positive experiences in science and technology can shape a child’s confidence, curiosity and aspirations for years to come,” says Amy Harrington, ESB Science Blast Programme Manager. “Through this programme, we’re seeing more than short-term excitement - we’re seeing the foundations of the future STEM workforce being built right here in primary schools.”
READ MORE: Netrio Officially Opens Expanded Belfast Office, Marking a New Chapter in Its Global Growth Story
Originally launched in 2010 as the RDS Primary Science Fair before evolving into ESB Science Blast in 2019, the initiative has engaged more than 90,000 pupils through showcase events in Dublin, Limerick and Belfast. This year’s Belfast Showcase will take place on Tuesday 5 May at ICC Belfast, bringing schools together to celebrate their work in a vibrant, supportive setting.
In classrooms across Northern Ireland, pupils carry out experiments exploring coding, ecosystems and everyday scientific phenomena. Crucially, the programme is entirely non-competitive - there are no winners or losers. This hands-on, pressure-free approach allows children to explore at their own pace, building confidence, collaboration and critical thinking skills that extend far beyond science. Teachers consistently report increased enthusiasm and engagement across the classroom.
Early STEM engagement also plays an important role in supporting Northern Ireland’s future workforce. “Engaging children with science at a young age doesn’t just teach facts -it nurtures the skills needed for tomorrow’s STEM careers,” Amy Harrington explains.
READ MORE: Danske Bank renews partnership with Include Youth
Teachers are supported through curriculum-aligned resources and webinars, ensuring they feel confident delivering inspiring STEM learning experiences.
“When teachers feel supported and equipped, children flourish. Early STEM engagement sparks long-term confidence and capability, helping build Northern Ireland’s next generation of problem-solvers,” Amy Harrington adds. “We encourage schools across Northern Ireland to take part and showcase their pupils’ creativity and curiosity.”
Schools across Northern Ireland are invited to get involved now. Particularly, if you’re a Primary 7 teacher, this is the perfect programme to finish your class's Primary School experience. To register your class project before the Friday 13 March deadline, visit www.esbscienceblast.com
Sync NI's Spring 2026 magazine explores innovation and collaboration transforming Northern Ireland's technology ecosystem
This issue features exclusive insights from industry leaders on AI transformation, cybersecurity evolution, legal technology innovation, and how strategic partnerships between academia and business are accelerating real-world impact across the region.
Read the Spring 2026 edition free online →
Stay connected with NI's tech community:
