Dublin, Ireland — 20th August 2024 — In 2028, Ireland is set to revolutionise its scientific landscape with the opening of the National Children’s Science Centre (NCSC). As the only OECD country currently without such a national facility, this initiative is poised to fill a critical void, marking a new era of educational innovation and scientific exploration.
We look at what sets the NCSC apart, why it is a crucial addition to Ireland's educational landscape and how it will inspire future generations to explore the wonders of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM).
A National Mission The NCSC is far more than a science museum—it’s a vision for the future of science education in Ireland. There is a significant gap in Ireland's offerings for a national children's science centre that will reach all corners of the country. The NCSC is designed with this national mission in mind. Our primary focus is on advancing national educational goals, serving the public and fulfilling government mandates to improve science literacy and education across Ireland. This broad, inclusive approach allows us to create a unique educational experience that is accessible to all.
Reaching Every Corner: National Outreach and Community Engagement The NCSC is dedicated to engaging communities across Ireland. By organising national science fairs, competitions and public science literacy campaigns, we aim to foster a love for science in every corner of the country. Through these initiatives, the Centre will play a crucial role in the nation’s development, inspiring future generations of scientists and innovators. Additionally, Exhibit 15 embodies the NCSC's commitment to national reach. This mobile initiative, featuring rotating temporary exhibitions will travel across the country, ensuring that over half a million Irish schoolchildren have the opportunity to experience the wonders of science. By bringing science directly to communities, Exhibit 15 will ensure that every child in Ireland can engage with our innovative and inspiring exhibits. An accompanying online app will further extend the Centre’s impact, reaching as far as the stars to spark imagination and engagement with children all over the world.
International, Dynamic and Transformational Exhibits The NCSC’s exhibits will be dynamic and constantly evolving, developed with input from national educational bodies to align with curriculum standards. Through international collaborations, we will exchange exhibits with science centres worldwide, ensuring that our visitors always experience the latest and most thrilling scientific advancements. Designed to serve a national audience, the NCSC’s exhibits are both grand in scale and visionary in scope. Our 122-seat planetarium is just one example, poised to inspire wonder and curiosity in visitors of all ages. These large-scale, high-quality installations will ensure that the NCSC will remain a centre of scientific exploration and education for all.
Innovation and Collaboration at the NCSC Research and collaboration are at the heart of the NCSC. Large-scale research projects and partnerships with universities, government agencies and international bodies will not only enhance exhibit quality but also contribute significantly to the global body of scientific knowledge.We are also looking to the future with The World in 2050 (TWI2050). This initiative focuses on six key transformations that encompass the major drivers of global, regional and local change. Our exhibits will align with these six Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), empowering children to understand and embrace their role in environmental stewardship. We aim to nurture a generation of informed, responsible citizens who are ready to make impactful decisions for a sustainable future.
Embracing Inclusivity Inclusivity is at the heart of the NCSC's mission. We are committed to equality, diversity and universal participation, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or ability, can fully engage with our offerings. By adhering to the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), we strive to create an environment where every visitor feels welcome and inspired. To maximise our educational impact, we will use national educational resources and work closely with educational bodies and ministries. By teaming up this way, we will create programs that have a profound and widespread effect, giving every child in Ireland the chance to experience the wonders of science and develop a lifelong love for learning.
Championing Sustainability Sustainability is more than a theme; it’s a commitment. Aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, the NCSC's exhibits will educate children on environmental stewardship, inspiring them to make informed decisions about the planet’s future.
Paul Duffy, Chair of the NCSC, explains further: “The National Children's Science Centre stands apart due to its national mission and comprehensive approach to science education. As a nationally run centre, the NCSC will be dedicated to serving the entire country by advancing national educational objectives and fostering a love for science among all children in Ireland. Our focus on inclusivity, accessibility and collaboration with national educational bodies, ensures that our exhibits and programs align with the curriculum and reach every corner of Ireland.”
He continues, “By leveraging government support and international partnerships, we will provide a dynamic, ever-evolving educational experience that is both high-quality and far-reaching. The NCSC is far more than a museum; it is a catalyst for inspiring future generations of scientists, engineers and innovators, ensuring Ireland's place as a global leader in STEAM education.”
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