How to Implement the STEM Curriculum in the Irish Classroom

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is no longer just the domain of secondary schools and laboratories. According to the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA), STEM education is a vital part of primary education in Ireland, shaping critical thinkers, creative problem solvers, and future innovators from the very beginning of their learning journey.

But how can we make STEM not only accessible but exciting for young learners? The key is hands-on learning, exploration, and curiosity. The NCCA highlights the importance of integrating STEM across the Primary School Curriculum, especially through playful, inquiry-based learning experiences.

Here are some easy ways to bring the STEM curriculum to life in your classroom, while linking directly to tried-and-tested educational resources:

STEM Projects

STEM learning rarely sits neatly in one subject box. A science-based investigation might also involve mathematical reasoning, visual design, geography, or even SPHE. For example, when children are challenged to design a device that can transport water, they are exploring engineering, understanding physical forces, estimating measurements, and working as a team—all at once.

These kinds of integrated projects help children see learning as purposeful and interconnected. They also foster collaboration, communication and creative thinking—key competencies within the curriculum.

The STEM Projects series encourages pupils to creatively apply their knowledge and skills across a variety of cross-curricular learning experiences. While most projects are rooted in science, they also naturally integrate elements of geography, mathematics, SPHE, visual arts, and design and technology. Each project is designed to promote collaborative learning, helping children to build essential skills in communication, cooperation, problem-solving, critical thinking, leadership, and resilience.

Hands-On Learning Builds Understanding

Abstract concepts—like magnetic force, electrical flow, or mechanical motion—can be difficult for children to grasp through textbooks alone. STEM offers an opportunity to learn by doing. When children investigate with their hands, they make concrete connections to the world around them.

For example, using magnets to test attraction and repulsion, building simple circuits, or observing how gears rotate are all ways to deepen understanding through direct experience. These activities also allow space for trial and error, encouraging a growth mindset and resilience.

🧠 Suggested resources:
Bar Magnets,
Premier Electricity Kit, or
Creative Gears Set for tactile, interactive exploration of STEM concepts.

STEM Builds Thinking and Talking Classrooms

In STEM-rich classrooms, children aren’t just building towers or circuits—they’re developing the language of reasoning. Asking questions, explaining choices, negotiating with peers and refining designs all promote critical thinking and oral language skills. These experiences support the curriculum’s emphasis on learning through talk and collaboration.

STEM challenges can also create inclusive spaces where children who may struggle with writing or traditional tasks can shine through practical problem-solving and leadership.

 Engineering and Design in Action

STEM encourages a design-make-test-reflect process that mirrors how engineers and inventors solve problems. Whether children are building a bridge from paper straws, designing a playground, or exploring how to make something move, they are developing real-world engineering habits.

This process nurtures creativity, perseverance and logical thinking—all while sparking joy and a sense of achievement.

🧠 Suggested resources:
LEGO Education BricQ Motion (screen-free) for physical science exploration, or
LEGO SPIKE Essential for older pupils learning coding and digital design.

Introducing Coding and Computational Thinking

Coding doesn’t just mean screen time—it means learning how to break problems into steps, give clear instructions, test and adapt. These are skills at the heart of both computing and everyday thinking.

Introducing coding can be as simple as sequencing movement commands or using physical robots to follow a path. As pupils grow, coding expands into block-based programming, problem-solving and even real-world applications like controlling sensors or motors.

🧠 Suggested resources:
Cooper the STEM Robot for early coding, or
Code & Go Mouse Mania for developing logic and sequencing in younger pupils.

Scientific Curiosity Starts Small

STEM also supports the natural curiosity children have about how things work. From magnifying leaves to exploring static electricity or chemical reactions, science activities give pupils a safe space to ask questions, observe closely, and make predictions.

Encouraging inquiry-based learning helps develop independent thinking and gives children ownership over their learning journey.

🧠 Suggested resources:
Primary Science Lab Set,
STEM Explorers Kit, or
Junior Explorer Microscope for hands-on discovery in everyday contexts.

STEM education in primary schools isn’t about adding something extra—it’s about using what we already do in more connected, meaningful and engaging ways. When we give children real tools to explore and create, we empower them to think critically, collaborate effectively and embrace challenge with confidence.

With the right environment, and the right mix of curiosity and creativity, STEM can flourish in any classroom.