Limerick sixth class student achievers scoop national prize

BALLYBROWN National School students have won a nationwide competition to raise awareness of carbon monoxide and the dangers it can pose in homes.

Sixth class students Mark Doolan and Matthew Collins received first prize for their entry to the Junior Achievement Ireland (JAI) Energize programme, run in partnership with Gas Networks Ireland (GNI). 

Mark and Matthew’s poster, featuring creative imagery and a poem about the dangers of carbon monoxide, was selected from hundreds of entries across Ireland. 

“The carbon monoxide poster competition really grabbed my class’ attention and the fact that Mark and Matthew’s entry won is the cherry on the cake,” class teacher Seamus Barry said. 

“The Energize programme was a wonderful way to introduce the practical side of science to students.” 

“Thanks to Andy from Dell for his work with the students, he was a great role model for the working world, and Gas Networks Ireland for supporting such an important initiative,” Mr Barry added. 

With their winning poster, Mark and Matthew won a brand new  Ipad for their classroom. 

“Congratulations to the students at Ballybrown National School for winning the Term One Energize art competition,” Ian O’Flynn of GNI said. 

“I’m delighted that so many schools have already engaged with Energize and that we’ve received entries to our carbon monoxide safety poster competition from schools across Ireland,” Mr O’Flynn said.

“Most importantly, more students are now aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide and will be able to spot the warning signs in the future.”

Schools who would like to register their interest in having Energize delivered can contact JAI at info@jai.ie