You can count on family fun at maths and science fair

Family fun with maths and science are promised this weekend in a town making a name for itself as a mathematics education hub.

Young visitors to the fourth Mallow Science and Maths Fair on Sunday will get a chance to drive small robotic cars using remote controls, play music using maths, take part in floor-based maths challenges and see chemical reactions more commonly encountered in text books or on TV.

The event is expected to attract 10,000 children and parents again this year, as leading names in international and local industry, and top research and education institutions showcase their work.

While many of the visitors may be getting a fresh idea of some of the fun aspects of the subjects, the north Cork town has been at the centre of a major focus on promoting an increased interest in maths and science through an initiative involving local authorities, schools and businesses. A range of training programmes have seen teachers from primary and second-level schools in the area bring new approaches to the subjects, many of them being considered for possible expansion nationally.

For Sunday’s event at Mallow GAA complex, the exhibitors include staff from universities and institutes of technology in Cork, Limerick and Waterford. Also providing interactive fun for the afternoon will be representatives of major employers such as EMC Ireland, Johnson & Johnson, Dairygold, and Kostal.

Space-walk simulations, chemistry magic, giveaways, and other entertainment are promised at the fair from 12pm to 3.30pm. There is no admission charge and children of all ages, and their parents, are welcome to attend. The event is promoted by Mallow Development Partnership and University of Limerick’s National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and Learning.