About Us

Midlands Science is a not for profit company which works to create greater interest in STEM [Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths] education and skills among students, teachers and members of the public in the Midlands [Laois, Offaly, Longford and Westmeath]. This is a key issue for the region’s development. We reach over 16,000 people directly per annum and our work has been independently and positively evaluated and found to be impactful, creative and innovative. We make a particular effort in all projects to engage with those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, as they are the least likely to engage with STEM outreach.

We have free STEM resources available to schools and the general public, check out our Science at Home series, Science Communities series or our Wonders of the Body series.

Our Mission

Our Mission is to develop programmes and events for people of all ages to explore and engage with science in the midlands counties of Laois, Offaly, Longford and Westmeath, to encourage young people to consider a career in STEM, and to raise awareness of the value of STEM in our society and economy. As an organisation our ambition is to become the leading model of inclusive, impactful and innovative STEM outreach in Ireland and an example of best practice within the international community.

We believe that the societal value created by engaging as many people as possible from all age groups and social classes in STEM outreach can make a unique and transformative contribution, benefiting all in our community. Through active engagement with STEM outreach people can make more informed choices about education, careers and everyday decisions as consumers and citizens.

Our vision is to increase scientific literacy amongst the general population through creating positive attitudes and awareness of the essential role that science has in our lives across all demographics in the Midlands region.

Key Objectives

Develop and implement programmes and awareness-raising initiatives designed to increase science capital in the region.
Develop new programmes targeted at sectors of the market yet to access STEM outreach in a way that is appropriate to their needs.
Training of stakeholders in a science capital approach.
Develop a knowledge hub for research and best practice relating to STEM outreach

Meet The Midlands Science Team

Midlands Science provides opportunities for people of all ages to explore and discuss issues of scientific interest and encourages young people to consider a career in science, technology, engineering or mathematics. Throughout the year, we deliver programmes for primary and secondary schools in the region and raise awareness of the value of STEM to our society and economy. Each year, our annual Festival welcomes visitors to over a hundred events and receives extensive media coverage. This work is delivered by our team, Jackie Gorman, Pauline Nally and Aoife Scanlon.