The National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and Learning (NCE-MSTL) and the Mallow Development Partnership group recently launched a joint Schools Project at the University of Limerick. The Project will target primary and second level schools in Mallow and district to increase achievement levels among students in science and mathematics in particular the physical sciences and higher level mathematics. This collaborative project will give Mallow schools the opportunity to be the lead school district in a strategy to address science and mathematics teaching and learning nationally.

The launch event held at UL was attended by teachers from Mallow and the Mid West Region together with representatives from the Mallow Development Partnership Group and the National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching and Learning. Speaking at the launch of the project, UL Vice President Academic & Registrar, Professor Paul McCutcheon said "this project signifies the very essence of the spirit that is required to ensure Ireland's economic recovery. It aims to put the smart economy vision into practice and pave the way for the success of the generations to come."

The Schools Project is part of the 'Mallow: Join the Move' initiative launched in September of this year, which sees the town link up with the region's major colleges including, UCC, CIT and the University of Limerick. As part of the initiative, schools in Mallow and district are aiming to become the lead school district in the country for researching and piloting development in teaching mathematics and science.

Speaking at the launch, Co-Director of the NCE-MSTL, Dr George McClelland said "the National Centre will work with teachers and schools to produce a unique community of practice and partnership in this science and mathematics project. All the primary and second level schools in the Mallow district will be actively involved. I would like to thank the Mallow Development Partnership, and the Mallow schools, and to congratulate them on their enterprise and vision in supporting this initiative, which will become the model and template for similar projects in other school districts."

The project is expected in the long term to contribute to the future economic success of the Mallow district. The funding for the programme has been sourced through local businesses which will support an action research project and professional training in science and mathematics teaching and learning practice.

John McDonnell, Mallow Development Partnership Chairman paid tribute to the companies and organisations who are financially backing the initiative for the next four years. "It speaks volumes for the Barry Group, Greencore Group plc, Dairygold, Mallow Credit Union, Cork County Council and Mallow Town Council that they should commit substantial resources to this project at what is a very challenging time in the economy." 

He added: " this project with NCE-MSTL is a unique collaboration between a local community and the Third Level Sector. It creates a wonderful opportunity for the primary and secondary schools in the Mallow area and for their pupils. In due course, this initiative will help to establish a skilled workforce in Mallow who will be able to avail of opportunities in the new economy and help to position the town for the future. In addition, this collaboration strengthens the links between Mallow as a Hub Town and the Gateway City of Limerick."

For further information about the National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics Science Teaching and Learning (NCE-MSTL) go to www.nce-mstl.ie

For further information about the Mallow Development Partnership go to www.mallow.ie