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MEP Sean Kelly with teacher Will Nolan and students Oisin McGibney, Kim McTigue and Cian Mason at the launch of the STEAM Academy at Mercy Mounthawk on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean
IRELAND South MEP, Sean Kelly, paid a visit to Mercy Mounthawk on Friday for the opening of the STEAM Academy at the secondary school.
Students in Mounthawk are embracing STEAM educational approach to learning the uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics have in everyday problem solving, student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking.
On his visit, Mr Kelly discussed the importance of STEM and STEAM in education and encouraged students to stick at those subjects. He said there are companies in Ireland and Europe crying out for people in the area of science, technology, engineering and maths, a view shared by teacher, Will Nolan.
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“These are real skills which students will take forward to use in real life situations, working in teams in agile work environments is about working as a team and solving problems, these kids are working on these through various projects and competitions,” said Mr Nolan.
“Mercy Secondary School Mounthawk has taken this approach to give pupils life skills which encourages students to take thoughtful risks, engage in experiential learning, persist in problem-solving, embrace collaboration, and work through the creative process. These are the innovators, educators, leaders, and learners of the 21st century,” he added.
“STEAM education sign posts students to national Science and Technology Projects allows our students to be challenged by real world problems,” said Deputy Principal Pat Fleming.
