- STEM is ranked as third in order of importance as a subject area in school by some parents
- Almost half (48%) of parents with primary school-aged children are satisfied with STEM learning opportunities in the classroom
- 74% of adults believe that a career in STEM would offer good job prospects
- ESB and RDS announce renewal of Science Blast Sponsorship, a STEM educational programme that has engaged over 70,000 pupils from all 32 counties, since 2019.
Tuesday, 4th March 2025
A recent survey highlights strong parental support for STEM* education, with 80% of parents willing to back their child's participation in extracurricular STEM activities. In addition, over half (54%) of the surveyed parents actively encourage their children to pursue an interest in STEM subjects.
These figures are part of a survey conducted by Red C Research and released by ESB to mark the start of ESB Science Blast 2025. The first showcase events are taking place in RDS Dublin from Monday 3rd to Thursday 6th March 2025.
ESB Science Blast, an RDS led initiative, is a free educational programme which actively encourages child-led investigation and scientific discovery. This non-competitive initiative aims to address inequities in STEM education by ensuring equal access for all students, with a 50/50 gender participation and a core focus on DEIS schools and Gaelscoileanna participation.
Parents attitudes to STEM
In the survey, almost half (48%) of parents with primary school-aged children stated they are satisfied with the STEM learning opportunities in the classroom. A regional disparity does exist as 40% of parents based in Dublin feel their child's school offers adequate STEM support compared to 33% of parents outside of Dublin.
Overall, STEM ranks third in importance among school subjects, underscoring the need for greater awareness and advocacy in this area.
STEM Career Opportunities and Understanding of STEM
The survey also sheds light on perceptions of STEM career opportunities. Three-quarters (74%) of adults believe that a career in STEM would offer good job prospects. Yet only 35% are familiar with the career opportunities associated with STEM.
There is a gender divide in perceptions of equal career opportunities in STEM, with 53% of men and 44% of women agreeing that such opportunities exist regardless of gender.
The survey also reveals a gap in understanding regarding the term ‘STEM’, with 58% of participants admitting they do not have a clear grasp of the term.
Commitment to STEM
Reaffirming their commitment to fostering STEM education, ESB and the RDS today announce a five-year extension to their partnership of ESB Science Blast.
Since 2019, ESB Science Blast has engaged over 70,000 pupils from all 32 counties, inspiring primary school pupils to explore the world around them and develop skills for the future, such as communication, critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and curiosity.
Commenting on the survey results and sponsorship renewal, Marguerite Sayers, Deputy Chief Executive, ESB said:
"ESB Science Blast has been a transformative experience for thousands of students across Ireland. Supporting ESB Science Blast is one way we help nurture a diverse talent pool and encourage children to see the endless possibilities a career in STEM can offer. We are proud to extend our partnership with the RDS and continue our mission to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders,"
"The enthusiasm and creativity displayed by the students is truly inspiring. Every year, the vast array of projects highlights the curiosity of primary school children as they investigate the science behind simple but intriguing questions. We look forward to welcoming students and their teachers to ESB Science Blast 2025”.
The positive and significant impact of ESB Science Blast is evident in the positive feedback from both pupils and teachers in an external evaluation study conducted by RDS. An impressive 71% of pupils reported improved teamwork skills, while 86% of teachers noted enhanced presentation skills in the classroom.
The programme has also sparked a greater interest in STEM careers, with 65% of pupils expressing a desire to pursue a future in the field.
Commenting on the partnership, Niamh De Loughry, Deputy Chief Executive Foundation said:
“ESB Science Blast exemplifies our unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and addressing critical societal needs. As a cornerstone of our Science and Technology programme, this initiative aligns with our long-term vision for Ireland. By delivering a leading exemplary programme, we are developing a curious and scientifically literate population equipped with the skills to solve the challenges of the future. We are grateful for ESB’s continued support, which enables us to scale and amplify the impact of this vital programme, ensuring it reaches thousands of young minds across the country.
This initiative also plays a fundamental role in supporting the Government’s efforts to make Ireland a leader in STEM education.”
ESB Science Blast takes place at RDS Simmonscourt from 3-6 March 2025, UL Limerick from 20-22 May 2025, and ICC Belfast on 3 June 2025.
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