A Message from our New CEO, Barbara Galavan
Dear Friends and Supporters,
As the new CEO of the National Children’s Science Centre (NCSC), I am delighted to join this mission to advance science education in Ireland. With planning permission granted for the north wing of Earlsfort Terrace, we are poised to begin development on a world-class science centre that will inspire children nationwide.
Ireland remains the only OECD country without a national science centre for children. This will change when the NCSC opens, offering an interactive environment that brings STEM to life through a planetarium, dynamic exhibits and international partnerships.
The OPW is committed to providing a refurbished North Wing of the landmark Earlsfort Terrace building. We are working with them to secure a Government department to lead this nationally important project. With your support and Government backing, we can make the NCSC a reality and ignite a brighter future for Ireland’s young innovators.
With thanks for your continued support,
Barbara Galavan, CEO of the NCSC
Did you Know? In 2023, the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education recommended "The National Children’s Science Centre, in gestation for many years, should be opened as a matter of urgent national priority.”
The Iveagh Gardens: Enhancing Access while Preserving Heritage
The Iveagh Gardens, often referred to as Dublin's hidden gem, are among the city's finest yet least known parks. As one of the best examples of Victorian landscape design in Ireland, the Gardens offer an escape from urban life.
The OPW is committed to preserving the integrity of the Iveagh Gardens while improving public access. Contrary to claims that the development of the North Wing of Earlsfort Terrace will destroy the Gardens, the project is designed to enhance and maintain this historic space.
Key Facts:
No Encroachment: The NCSC will be housed in the existing North Wing of Earlsfort Terrace, with a new extension built on the current car park. The development will not extend into the Iveagh Gardens.
Improved Accessibility: A new, universally accessible entrance will be created, featuring a stone-clad ramp. This design will make the Gardens more accessible to the public.
Minimal Tree Removal: Out of over 300 trees in the Iveagh Gardens, only four will be removed to facilitate the development. The project has been carefully planned to minimise environmental impact and these trees will be replaced by additional plantings.
Historical Preservation: Planning permission has been secured to include the removal of a portion of the boundary wall that was added in the early 20th century. This change will restore the original relationship between Earlsfort Terrace and the Iveagh Gardens.
Sinn Féin TD Chris Andrews has expressed concerns about the impact on the Iveagh Gardens. We’d like to reassure him that the OPW has taken extensive measures to address these issues; the project has undergone thorough planning and consultation to ensure that the Gardens' heritage and natural beauty are preserved for future generations. We encourage the public to contact us with any questions or concerns.
For more detailed information, you can access an interview with Professor Áine Hyland, Chair of the NCSC Exhibits Advisory Committee.
Science Week 2024 is Here!
And we are so excited! Running from 10th – 17th November, Science Week is a vibrant national celebration of science across Ireland. This year, the theme is REGENERATION, encouraging us to draw on past knowledge and fresh ideas to shape a sustainable and healthy future.
With hundreds of events planned nationwide, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in interactive workshops, fascinating talks, or hands-on activities, Science Week has a way for every generation to join in on the fun and discovery.
The NCSC team will be out and about, checking out the events. We can’t wait to jump in and make a big impact soon—just waiting on the green light from the government!
To see what’s happening near you, visit Science Week Events.
National Concert Hall Secures Approval for Major Transformation
In September, the Office of Public Works (OPW) secured planning permission for the National Concert Hall (NCH) to transform it into the world-class music venue that Ireland deserves.
Together, the NCSC and the NCH aim to unite the worlds of science and music in one location, making Earlsfort Terrace a unique destination for visitors and the community alike.
With Government support, we at the NCSC are ready to make this vision a reality, enhancing Dublin’s South Georgian Quarter and enriching experiences for Irish children and the broader community.
For more, see the Dublin City Development Plan 2022-2028 (p. 387).
A Conversation with Dr. Niamh Shaw - A trailblazing Irish engineer, scientist, writer and performer
Recently, Dr. Niamh Shaw shared with us her inspiring journey towards space and the goals that fuel her curiosity. Niamh is well-known for her commitment to sustainability and STEM education.
Reflecting on her passion, she revealed how her fascination with science began with her father’s role in the 1960s NASA programme. Today, Niamh’s dreams are focused on suborbital flight and a visit to the International Space Station. Her perspective on space—its beauty, vulnerability and contrast to life on Earth—drives her to inspire young minds and remind them of the importance of protecting our planet.
Niamh spoke highly of the National Children's Science Centre (NCSC), saying, “The National Children’s Science Centre will become a place where curiosity comes alive. It’s not just about learning science; it’s about experiencing it, feeling it and letting your imagination soar. I believe the NCSC will inspire a whole new generation of explorers and problem-solvers, making science accessible and exciting for every child in Ireland."
Paschal Naylor Joins the Board of the NCSC
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Paschal Naylor to our board of directors. Paschal’s extensive experience will be invaluable in helping the NCSC achieve our mission of inspiring and educating the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators.
Paschal brings an impressive background in the technology sector to the NCSC. He is currently an Advisor to Presidio Europe and the co-founder of Arkphire, a leading Irish IT consulting and managed-services company.
Paschal says, “I am honoured to be part of the National Children’s Science Centre,” “This science centre will spark curiosity and foster a love for science and technology in young people across Ireland and beyond. I look forward to working with the board and our partners in government to fulfil our ambition to deliver this exciting and innovative project.”
5 Reasons why Ireland Needs a National Children’s Science Centre
1 | Investing in Ireland’s Future | The NCSC is an investment in our children, preparing them to tackle global challenges like climate change and health innovation. |
2 | Fueling Future Entrepreneurs | The NCSC can nurture homegrown talent, equipping Irish children to lead in a world driven by science and technology. |
3 | Reaching Every Community | With mobile exhibits and national events, the NCSC will bring hands-on science experiences to children across Ireland. |
4 | Closing Ireland's Science Gap | Ireland is the only OECD country without a national science centre for children. |
5 | Fostering Global Collaboration | International partnerships will provide access to the latest scientific innovations. |
We hope you enjoyed this edition.
Until the next one, stay curious and keep exploring! Don’t forget to follow us for the latest updates and fun snippets: Subscribe on LinkedIn and follow us on Instagram and X / Twitter.
Here is the full article in pdf:
- TRANFORMING SICENCE LEARNING FOR CHILDREN IN IRELAND -
