In conjunction with National Science Week 2016, students from 4th class in St. Saviour’s N.S. were invited to learn more about what goes on behind the scenes at ORAFOL Europe GmbH.
ORAFOL and Junior Achievement Ireland, ran an exciting ‘School to Work’ Day where the dual aim was to help the children realise the full range of services provided by this Waterford facility whilst also learning about engineering, science and health & safety. Throughout the course of an activity-filled morning, the children met with many of the staff working in ORAFOL.
The morning began with an introduction to what happens in the company and an opportunity to learn about some of the different careers. Following this they participated in a science workshop called “Rainbows to Lasers” where they learned about the properties of light and reflection.
After this they were brought on a guided site tour where they experienced the ‘Light Tunnel’, and ORAFOL’s laboratory and production facility. The last event of the day was a “Spot the Hazard” activity where the students identified hazards in a community and learned the importance of safety in the workplace and how to avoid accidents. We also had a special guest from Waterford Garda Station, Garda Bernard Dowling, who had a question and answer session with the students and reinforced the importance of safety in the community. Finally, the students were presented with their Certificates of Achievement by Finance Director Will O’ Reilly.
Ciara Kavanagh, Principal of St. Saviour’s N.S., on behalf of the 4th class teacher said, “The students were delighted to be invited to ORAFOL for a visit during Science Week. The children really enjoyed the visit as it was both fun and educational. The staff from ORAFOL ensured that the children were looked after so well during the day and learned so much from the trip. We would like to express our sincere thanks to everyone involved.”