Presentation Castleisland continued its outstanding record at student enterprise on 3 May 3rd when two teams from the school were announced as finalists for the National Enterprise competition.
The final takes place in the Helix in Dublin on May 18th.
Pres teacher Edward Clarke said that only five teams from across the country in each of the junior, intermediate and senior categories were selected to attend the final and that it is a huge achievement that Presentation Castleisland is represented in two of these categories.
Outdoor Bench Covering
The first year team ‘Roley Poley’ created two products as part of its enterprise – an outdoor bench and retrofit seat covering. The seats rotate to always ensure a dry surface after a shower of rain.
For the retrofits, the team recycled old materials such as tablecloths, timbers and carpet rolls to make the seat covers and packaging. As well as participation in the national final, the team also won a National Intellectual Property Award in recognition of its work on, and potential to exploit, IP.
The team consists of Cáit Daly, Ellie Curtin, Laura McShane, Kirsten O’Connor and Brid Curtin.
Mearscaoilte Lao
Two students in fifth year, Katelyn Curtin and Orlaith Buckley, have created their enterprise Mearscaoilte Lao.
The students designed a safety innovation to allow a farmer to quickly detach a calving jack in the event of an emergency during calving.
The idea stems from Katelyn’s background in farming and her exposure to the dangers that can be ever present. Mearscaoilte Lao also received an Intellectual Property Special Commendation Prize.
Achievement Recognised
Mr. Clarke added that it is fantastic that these two student enterprises have been recognised.
“The ideas they have are innovative and creative, making a valuable contribution to farm safety and dealing with the very real challenge of using outdoor seating in the inclement Irish weather,” he said.
Principal Pierce Dargan reiterated the efforts of the school to give students every opportunity to transform their creative ideas into real business ventures.
“Our school continues to be a leader in student enterprise in the country. We wish both teams well in the final,” said Mr. Dargan.
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