ESB Science Blast
ESB Science Blast is the flagship project in the RDS Science and Technology programme. It is a STEM education programme, designed and delivered by the RDS, to inspire primary school children. It is one of the largest science education programmes for primary schools of its kind anywhere.
The RDS is leading a philanthropic investment of over €5 million into this programme. To date, over 82,000 primary-aged children have taken part in our events. The RDS are committed to build ESB Science Blast into a programme that is household name, embedded in schools and delivering exceptional experience and impact every year.
We aim to develop STEM confidence in the next generation. Our inquiry-based approach promotes the development of creativity, critical-thinking, collaboration and communication, which are not just skills for the workplace, but skills for life, benefiting society as well as individuals.
Evidence shows that, at this age, children are more open to the possibilities of STEM than students in later academic years, with positive experiences potentially having a lasting effect.
Our key goals are to deliver a quality, exemplary programme and to develop a curious and scientifically literate population, with the skills to solve the challenges of the future.
What is ESB Science Blast?
ESB Science Blast asks an entire primary school class to investigate a question they are curious about and to present their findings at one of our showcase days.
During the showcase events, the children talk to STEM experts about their investigations and receive constructive feedback. They also attend fun-filled science-themed shows and visit interactive stands in our Exhibitors Area.
ESB Science Blast 2026
ESB Science Blast is back for the 8th year of the programme.
Project submissions can be made here.
To help classes around Ireland get started, tailor-made lesson plans, new interactive resources, past questions and ESB Science Blast TV are available at esbscienceblast.com/resources
ESB Science Blast 2026
ESB Science Blast is back for 2026. The programme's key goals are to encourage students to engage with STEM learning experiences, to develop critical 21st century skills and to explore a plethora of cross-curricular benefits. Project submissions can be made here. To help classes around Ireland get started, tailor-made lesson plans, new interactive resources, past questions and ESB Science Blast TV are available on the website.
The learning journey is the most important part of the programme, and classes will be paired up with an expert judge who will give positive encouragement and communicate their enthusiasm for STEM.
The dates for ESB Science Blast 2026 are:
- Dublin, RDS – 2nd – 5th March 2026
- Belfast, ICC – 5th May 2026
- Limerick, UL – 19th- 21st May 2026
-
1. Encourage and facilitate the development in primary school aged children of long-term interest, understanding, knowledge and skills in STEM subjects.
2. Encourage and facilitate the development of primary school teachers’ in teaching STEM skills. Facilitate a change in thinking leading to a change in practice.
3. Encourage and facilitate families to engage with children’s STEM education, to nurture a supportive learning environment outside the classroom
-
’Thank you for organising everything at ESB Science Blast. The children absolutely loved it and were delighted with such positive feedback received from the judge. I will definitely be back again next year.’’ Teacher, Carysfort NS
‘’It’s better than normal science. I never really found science that interesting but now I do.’’ Pupil, 5th class, Wexford
“It gave all the children a voice. They took pride in what they were doing, it was nothing to do with me! ’’ Teacher, Mainstream School, Kildare
‘’ I was thinking of being a Fireman before I did Science Blast but I am going to be a Scientist when I grow up.’’ Pupil, 4th Class, Dublin
‘’The event's organisation, from our arrival to departure, was exemplary. The priority access passes were particularly beneficial, as avoiding long queues helped prevent potential triggers for behavioural challenges in my class. Additionally, the sensory kits were a huge success back at school - thank you for providing such high-quality and generous resources. We will certainly be returning next year and I will also be encouraging other special education teachers to participate in the event’’ Teacher, Special Education School, Co. Wicklow
An rud is fearr ná na scoileanna sóisialta… an muinineach atá acú a bheith ag caint le daoine eile – páistí eile agus múinteoirí as Gaeilge. Níl aon deis a dhéanamh ach anois. Múinteoir, Gaelscoil, Co. Phort Láirge
This was the first time my son has ever been able to be a part of an event of this kind. I am just so impressed at the inclusivity measures that were put in place. The non-competitive aspect of the event allows the special school pupils to meaningfully participate at their level and it was great to see other kids engaging in their presentation. Thank you! Parent, Special Education School, Co. Dublin
‘’Is é an rud is fearr faoi theacht go Bhleist Eolaíocht ná an Ghaeilge ar fad a chloiseann tú.’’ Múinteoir, Gaelscoil, Co. Loch Garman
-
While the RDS is leading a philanthropic investment of over €5 million into ESB Science Blast, we cannot do this large-scale work alone. To help us on this significant journey we have been joined by partners from business, philanthropy and education. They all believe in the future of our children and their potential, together we will have a positive impact on their lives.
ESB Science Blast is currently funded by
the RDS, ESB as title sponsor, Department of Education, Research Ireland, An Foras Pátrúnachta, Bristol Myers Squibb, COGG, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Foras na Gaeilge, Irish Aid, Irish American Partnership, Jones Engineering, Kainos, Met Éireann, and Teagasc.
If you would like to support us, please contact Niamh de Loughry, Deputy Chief Executive – Foundation: niamh.deloughry@rds.ie .
