Cahir Boys NS were very proudly represented by 4 pupils from 3rd class in the Middle Primary School section of this national competition. Having won their regional section in Carlow last month the four boys, Liam O'Neill, Jack Buckley, Simon Ungurean and Bassem Salib, were giddy with excitement with the prospect of explaining the class project to the judges. They were very proud to represent their class and school in this competition. There were 15 schools, out of 200 original entrants, were brought together for the national finals.
It meant an early start to the day, leaving Cahir at 7.00pm. Unlike the last time there was no need to wake anyone out of bed as all were ready for the trip. Class teacher, Yvonne Fahy, drove a full car of posters, boats, props, science equipment, baths and of course, the pupils!!! The motorway made a huge difference to the travel time, going via Portlaoise and Tullamore.
We were the first group there and it gave all a chance to get set up for the displays. The level of preparation meant all the equipment was squeezed into a tight area, the width of a table and 2 display boards.
Then it was chance to see the other projects on Canal Habitats, Farm Safety, Air Pressure, Ultrasounds on Sheep, Wormeries, Climate Studies, Coca Cola and a few other projects that proved a wonderful display of primary school science.
Judging took its time and the lads were worn out. Luckily they got a snack before the judges arrived at their table so they were up for the presentation. The judges looked like they enjoyed the four boys and their explanation of the properties of water and the many different aspects of their project.
At the end of judging all the children were treated to a science show while awaiting the results. They were eager participants and Simon was a lucky volunteer for one experiment.
While the boys were unfortunate not to be in any of the prize winners on the day they are a credit to their families, their fellow pupils, their class teacher, Yvonne Fahy and themselves.
A special word of thanks to Yvonne Fahy who pushed this project through the class over the last number of months. This whole class project certainly provided motivation & inspiration to the pupils and will help them go forward for the rest of the year.
