Students in Mayfield Community School were spoiled for choice during Science week. First year and LCA students built an insect hotel and put up bird feeders in the school grounds as part of a biodiversity project. Science teacher Ms Callanan said “First year student recycled old pots, twigs, rolled up cardboard, red bricks and chicken wire to create a safe haven for insects and learned the importance of protecting our native species by providing suitable habitats over the winter”.
Students enjoyed a plant tour of Biopharma Education Centre where they learned of the processes and conditions required in a pharmaceutical factory setup. Students also learned about career paths in the pharmaceutical sector.
Students had a unique opportunity to visit the Stardome set up in the hall of the school’s sports complex by Blackrock Observatory. Science teacher Mr Begley said “students gained a new perspective on the night skies in Ireland.” Students were excited to explore the possibility of travel to Mars and learned of the difficulties such a journey would entail. Science teachers in Mayfield Community School were delighted to host this exciting event as it links directly to topics on the new Junior Cycle syllabus.