Brain Busters programme a fun-filled, educational challenge
Fifth and sixth year primary and secondary students up to Junior Cert are being invited to enter An Post’s inaugural, “Brain Busters” programme which was announced today by writer and explorer of space activities Dr Niamh Shaw.
To secure the opportunity to represent their school at the An Post Brain Busters National Final in April 2022, students must successfully complete a series of numeracy and literacy challenges.
For more than 30 years, An Post has pioneered some of the most popular and practical education programmes for schools. Brain Busters takes a new, ‘gamification’ approach to literacy and numeracy, inspired by the format and excitement of ‘Escape Room’ challenges.
The concept, tasks and materials have been developed by teachers in collaboration with mathematician Dr Finn MacLeod, scientist Niamh Shaw and author Oisín McGann who is from Drogheda.
“An Post Brain Busters is designed to encourage curiosity and gives school goers the opportunity to put their problem-solving skills to the test” Doctor Shaw said.
“As children return to the classroom after so much disruption, collaborative, enjoyable activities which develop interest and instill pride in numeracy and literacy are key to the development of their academic interests…”
Managing Director of An Post Retail, Debbie Byrne, said they had worked closely with teachers to develop the new An Post Brain Busters challenge, continuing their strong tradition of supporting the curriculum in an entertaining and fun way.
“By making numeracy and literacy part of the ‘Everyday’ experience, we are also demonstrating the purpose of An Post – To act for the common good, improving the quality of life now and for generations to come” she said.
“An Post’s Green Light strategy challenges all parts of our business to take bigger, braver steps in pursuit of our sustainability goals, most particularly Climate Action, Decent Work and Sustainable Cities and Communities. And in turn we are challenging future generations to embrace Literacy and Numeracy in a practical way that will help them to support and enhance their communities and the wider world”, she concluded.
The An Post Brain Busters national final will see 20 teams of three students compete for the title of Primary and Post-Primary champions. The An Post Brain Busters champions will win a prize of €1,000 for their school along with a weekend break for the teacher of the top team! Full details of the An Post Brain Busters Challenge will reach schools over the coming week and are also available at www.anpost.com/Brain-busters
