Educator Story
Darragh, Our Lady of Lourdes National School, Dublin 8
Science You Can See and Touch
Under the guidance of Darragh, an enthusiastic educator who took part in Kinia’s Hydrogen Explorer Training programme, students explored how electrolysis can split water into hydrogen and oxygen, capturing the hydrogen and using it to power small fuel-cell engines. Complex scientific principles quickly became tangible as the young people saw renewable energy in action.
“The excitement when the cars finally took off was brilliant to see.”
More Than a Science Lesson
The project encouraged far more than scientific understanding. Students worked collaboratively, tested ideas, refined their designs, and supported one another through challenges. They weren’t just building cars, they were developing resilience, teamwork, and confidence.
By connecting renewable energy concepts to real-world application, Darragh created a learning experience that was both practical and inspiring for his learners.
“This hands-on project helped the students develop their understanding of renewable energy, engineering, and teamwork.”
Moments like these demonstrate the value of equipping young people with practical tools and the right support to use them.
Why It Worked
Abstract Science Made Real Electrolysis and hydrogen fuel cells can be hard to grasp on paper. Building and running the process brought it to life.
The Moment That Says It All When the cars moved under hydrogen power, the room lit up. That kind of authentic excitement is rare and it’s exactly the kind of moment that makes young people engage with science.
Skills for Life, Not Just the Lab Beyond the science, young people built teamwork, resilience, and critical thinking, capabilities that will serve them long after the lesson ends.
Educators Empowered to Lead The Hydrogen Education course gave Darragh everything he needed to deliver a complex, high-impact project with confidence and energy.