LOCAL pupils are set to enjoy the wonders of science thanks to an exciting new initiative that is being rolled out across 15 local schools. 

The 'Fermanagh Primary School Science Initiative' is the brainchild of secondary school Chemistry teacher, Dearbhla Gilmore, who is on a mission to provide schools with the tools and knowledge for practical Science. 

And now, thanks to Dearbhla's efforts, along with vital grants from the Royal Society of Chemistry, Mannok, and Elite Electronic Systems Ltd,  15 schools across Fermanagh now have over £200 worth of science equipment to hit the ground running.

Dearbhla, who also runs a private tuition school, 'Mad About Science Tutoring school', has also been busy helping teachers develop and enhance their know-how on science activities, all for the benefit of pupils. 

Speaking on the origins of the initiative, Dearbhla said: "Fivemiletown Primary School had asked me to provide training to a group of 15 nursery and foundation stage teachers from across Fermanagh, with the aim of increasing their confidence in the reintroduction of Science education into primary school and in particular the early years.  

"Science is currently under the umbrella category of 'the world around us' and as a consequence, the level of science teaching across primary schools varies at best, and isn’t covered at all at worst. 

"I was delighted to be asked to deliver the training but my concern was the difficulty the teachers would have bringing this training back to their classrooms with no resources and equipment."

In response to this dilemma, Dearbhla approached a few different companies with a stem ethos for equipment sponsorship. 

She was delighted, then, when Elite Electronics sponsored £1,300 and Mannok, £1,000. 

And combined with the funding from the Royal Society of Chemistry, almost £3,000 was spent on resources, which was split across 15 schools in Fermanagh. 

Dearbhla added: "Our first training day took place on Monday, April 15, where we explored the impact on introducing more science content into the classroom at the nursery and foundation stage. 

"All schools received training on science activities which could be introduced into their classroom. 

"We hope to turn this into an annual initiative, and hopefully with more businesses on- board we will be able to move through the key stages of primary schools supporting them with science education each year."