Ten schoolchildren from St Colmcille's Primary School in Ballymena are travelling to Dublin today, Saturday 23rd March, where they will go head to head in the All-Ireland Finals of the LEGO League Competition.
The Year 6 class, with the help and support of their teacher Miss Niamh McKinley, competed against primary and secondary schools from across Northern Ireland in the regional First LEGO League on 7th March.
In a truly remarkable achievement, the impressive 'St Colmcille's Crafty Coders' team came up tops in the STEM challenge and were awarded:
• Winning Robot Game
• Innovation Presentation
• Best Teacher Award, and
• Overall Champions
The Northern Ireland champions will be giving their all again today in hopes of being crowned the All-Ireland Champions!
Proud teacher, Miss McKinley, whose hard work and dedication has itself been deservedly recognised with winning the Best Teacher Award, has praised the efforts of her students. Niamh told Love Ballymena:
"As their teacher, witnessing their growth and confidence development has been incredibly fulfilling. Their remarkable skills continue to amaze me. The preparation and competition will be an unforgettable highlight of my career."
Niamh also thanked all those who have helped and supported the children on their journey.
"The student's achievement wouldn't have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors," she said. "We have received fantastic support from a range of local businesses and organisations including, NRC Technological College, Milanos, McAtamney’s Butchers, NIE, Michelin, MFP, Atlas Technologies, The Hair and Beauty Spot, Orthoplus, BMW Garage, Harryville’s Mens Shed, Ballymena Rotary Club, ZALA sports, Wrights, Pizza Parlour, Edmondson Estates, The Mayor, ACE Fixings, and the Credit Union."
Ahead of today's All-Ireland Final, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Gerardine Mulvenna commented:
"I would like to wish the team from St Colmcille's Primary School in Ballymena the very best of luck at the ‘First Lego League’ All-Ireland final in Dublin this weekend!
"The team took part in a regional round in Belfast at the beginning of March and beat stiff competition to secure their place in the All Ireland final - earning the highest robot score, the best teacher award, the best innovation project, and ultimately, the title of overall champions.
"The competition requires the pupils to complete two key elements: an innovation project and a robot game – each requiring the pupils to take part in research, problem-solve, code, and engineer.
"I wish you well and look forward to hearing more about your trip! Good luck!"
Teacher Niamh concluded:
"This is an unforgettable experience for these young pupils and it wouldn’t have been possible without everyone’s support."
Best of luck to the amazing St Colmcille's Crafty Coders!