A bit about the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition
THE WHAT…
In its 49th year the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition is much more than a competition; it is an unforgettable experience of a lifetime for the students who take part. The exhibition itself is the final stage in the competition which is open to all second level students from Ireland, both North and South. As well as the 550 student projects on display, there are a further four exhibition halls filled with science and technology based exhibits and entertainment, making it a thrilling event for those who enter and for general visitors too.
THE HISTORY…
In recent years the number of entries has increased dramatically, reaching an all time high last year when 1743 projects were submitted. All entries are screened to select just over 550 projects that go through to compete in the RDS. The event attracts over 40,000 people making it one of the largest events of its kind in Europe, if not the world!
In Coláiste Mhuire Co-Ed, a record number of entries were submitted to the competition. The categories ranged from Junior (1st years) up to Intermediate (Transition Years). The ideas for the projects were amazing. Such brilliant minds were able to research their chosen topic, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and to thrash out ideas until their projects were completed. When the 10th January came, there were two busloads of eager students ready for the off. When we arrived at the RDS, the students were overawed at the quality of displays and the shows put on by the organisers were mind-blowing. Our students particularly enjoyed the 3-D Cosmos display. The students of Coláiste Mhuire represented the school in the most exemplary manner. The chatter on the bus on the return journey was all about ideas for next years’ competition. It was a wonderful, inspirational day and one which the students all agree, made them more interested in Science and all the possibilities that the future holds.
