Doing practical work gives primary school children a greater understanding of subjects such as science, it has been suggested.

Libby Steele, head of education at the Royal Society, said it is important that even young pupils are given an appropriate amount of practical work to do.

"In primary school, if you go outside and find a mini beast then you'll watch the way it walks, what it's doing and you will remember far more than reading about it in a book," she explained.

Children are curious and keen to learn about the world around them, so it is essential that schools do not switch off this curiosity, Ms Steele added.

The Irish Independent reported last year that it is essential for the country's economic future to encourage more school children to take up science subjects.

It noted that graduates with maths, science and engineering skills will prove vital in the future.

Written by Donal Walsh

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