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The Department of Biological Sciences at ��ɫ��Ƶ (UL) is welcoming hundreds of Leaving Certificate Biology students this week, offering them a unique hands-on learning experience in its cutting-edge laboratories.

Almost 400 students from second-level schools across Limerick and Tipperary are taking part in laboratory experiments aligned with the Leaving Certificate Biology curriculum. During their visit, students complete 18 essential practicals, including dissecting a sheep’s heart, extracting DNA, and conducting food and plant-based experiments.

Rachael Daly, Biology Teacher at Newport College in Tipperary, whose students participated in the sessions, highlighted the value of the experience:

“Many of these investigations were completed in fifth year, and now, as sixth years preparing for their mock exams in February, this experience is essential. Bringing students to the university labs right after the Christmas break gives them a hands-on opportunity they wouldn’t normally encounter. It’s a step up from school labs—everything is laid out, and the lab technicians are fantastic at guiding students through each investigation. Science is a practical subject, and this provision makes it truly hands-on and hugely beneficial.”

The Leaving Certificate Biology Practical Sessions have been running ��ɫ��Ƶ for over a decade. Edel Durack, Chief Technical Officer in UL’s Department of Biological Sciences, explained:

“This is a fantastic opportunity for students to practise their lab skills before sitting their Leaving Certificate in June. They also get a glimpse of what life as a UL student looks like and experience a third-level laboratory setting before their exams. Feedback from students is always very positive.”

Durack added that not all schools have the facilities to carry out every practical component of the curriculum:

“Our revision course allows students to complete all experiments in one day. Our state-of-the-art laboratories are ideal for teaching large groups, and these sessions are so popular that places filled up within 24 hours this year.”

The Department’s technical team, postgraduate students, and teaching assistants are actively involved throughout the week, guiding and supporting students as they conduct experiments. In addition, visiting students receive insights into UL’s Biological Sciences programmes and the wider Faculty of Science and Engineering.