Primary School Programme

The Uni4U programme, led by the Access Centre at the University of Galway, offers exciting experiences to over 200 6th class students from five DEIS and Link primary schools in Galway City. In 2024, we worked with the following schools: Radharc na Mara, Scoil Bhríde, Scoil Chroí Íosa, Merlin Woods, and Mercy Primary.

Students and their teachers visited the campus once a week for seven weeks to engage in workshops with various university departments and schools. This year, students explored Irish Language and Culture, the Cell Explorers Science Club, Economics, Engineering, a Moot Court with the School of Law, the Computer Museum, broadcasting with Flirt FM, Storytelling, Italian Language and Culture with the Italian Department, Brain Awareness Week exhibitions, and workshops with the Galway International Arts Festival, the Career Development Centre, and the Ideas Lab.

In the final week of the programme, each school participated in a sports day, where they had the chance to try a range of different sports in collaboration with the Galway Sports Partnership. Activities included Judo with Galway City Judo, Hockey with Hockey Ireland, Tennis with Tennis Ireland, and Golf with Golf Ireland.

Students also took part in activities with their assigned mentors, including campus tours, a university quiz, and games. They concluded their day by having lunch together in the campus canteen, surrounded by other university students, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of campus life.

Additionally, the Uni4U programme offered a summer camp at the University of Galway. This year, our students participated in sports at the Kingfisher, rugby with Connacht Rugby, and various creative activities.

The aim of Uni4U is to foster personal development by enhancing self-esteem, confidence, communication skills, and social behaviour through team-building activities and workshops, alongside educational enrichment activities.

Uni4U Graduation

At the end of the Uni4U programme, all participating pupils' achievements were honoured in a special graduation ceremony held in the Bailey Allen Hall, attended by parents, Mayor of Galway City Councillor Eddie Hoare, special guest Galway United Senior Women's Manager Phill Trill, and senior university staff.