Pupils from Roscommon school investigate the Asian hornet

A school in County Roscommon is focussing its attention on one of Ireland’s most serious emerging environmental concerns as part of Science Blast 2026 - the Asian hornet.

The project being undertaken by pupils from Fifth and Sixth Class at Newtown National School, Ballinasloe, County Roscommon will be showcased at Science Blast at the RDS in March 2026.

Pupils are researching the Asian hornet, an invasive species that poses a significant risk to bees, other pollinators, and biodiversity.

Leading the project with the students is teacher Ruairí Ó Leocháin who has experience as a beekeeper.

The investigation is diving into how the hornets can be identified as well as the steps people should take if they come in contact with the hornet.

Through hands-on science activities, models, and investigations, the children are learning how the hornet can be identified, why it is dangerous, and what can be done to raise public awareness.

The project will be presented through a poster created by the students as well as a video discussing what they have learned.

Science Blast is a nationwide STEM initiative that encourages primary school pupils to explore real-world scientific problems through inquiry and experimentation.

The Newtown NS project links science learning directly to environmental protection and community awareness.

“This project gives pupils the opportunity to engage with a real environmental issue affecting Ireland today. They are developing scientific skills while also learning how science can help communities respond to challenges like invasive species,” explained Ruairí.

The school hopes the project will help inform the wider community about the Asian hornet and encourage vigilance in reporting sightings.

Ruairí stressed the importance of children having an interest in science. “It’s hugely important for them to be aware and have an interest, but children do every single day - they are asking questions non-stop about different things and every time you ask a question that’s science.”