Timahoe NS are celebrating another Science success after 6th Class student Tomás Ramsbottom won a category prize at the Grand Final of the Intel Mini Scientist recently.
Tomas scooped the prize for ‘Most Innovative Idea’ for his project ‘Canine Care’.
Tomás along with his cousin Emma, won the overall competition last year so this success is another great accomplishment for him.
His project looked at creating a pet friendly dog collar for his new pup, Penny.
Tomás was beginning to train Penny and learned that she responded best to a calm caring approach.
He then wondered if he could create an alternative to a ‘shock collar’ to aid in training his dog.
As his research developed he thought it would be useful to add GPS tracking, owner identification and two-way voice commands to the collar. All very useful tools for dog owners.
Tomás sought out the expert advice of Donnacha Dunne to design an app and QR code to develop a prototype collar and app.
He was visited by several judges and used his strong presenting skills to great effect.
Tomás really enjoyed the project and he is convinced he has a good product in the making.
He said: “Hopefully with the help of the Canine Care Collar you will have a happy dog and happy owner. Win Win for everyone.
“This year has been another great experience and I am delighted to collect another prize.”
Over 7,000 children took part in the Intel Mini Scientist this year and Tomas’ project was one of the 80 projects to exhibit on the day. A great achievement in itself.
6th Class teacher, Anna Moore, was delighted with the outcome.
She said: “It is a testament to Tomás that he came back this year with a brilliant project after winning the overall competition last year.
“We really look forward to seeing what the future holds for him. Today brings to an end, a wonderful journey experienced by Tomas over the past 2 years.”
