Tipperary school is enhancing its reputation as a STEM education leader

Presentation Secondary School in Clonmel's strengthening its reputation as a leader in STEM education following a significant European achievement by one of its Science teachers.

Earlier this month, Marie Lawlor, a Biology teacher at the school, travelled to Heidelberg, Germany, to participate in a prestigious international training programme was hosted by the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), a world-renowned research institute associated with groundbreaking discoveries and Nobel Prize–winning scientists. The programme, titled “Epigenetics Explained”, took place from 2–4 March 2026 and brought together a select group of educators from across Europe.

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Marie was one of just 20 teachers chosen for this highly competitive Train-the-Trainer Epigenetics Ambassadors Programme, placing her among an elite cohort of STEM educators. The course focused on epigenetics, a rapidly evolving field now included in the new Leaving Certificate Biology curriculum, which explores how environmental and chemical changes can influence gene expression without altering DNA itself.

Hosted at EMBL’s world-renowned research campus, the programme offered participants direct engagement with leading scientists and access to cutting-edge research facilities. Teachers took part in expert-led lectures, interactive workshops, and collaborative discussions designed to translate complex scientific discoveries into classroom learning.

EMBL itself is internationally recognised as one of Europe’s foremost centres for molecular biology research, with a long-standing reputation for scientific excellence and innovation.

Its training programmes are designed to connect educators with the latest developments in life sciences, ensuring that knowledge gained at the forefront of research reaches students across Europe.

By completing the programme, Marie Lawlor has now been certified as an EMBL Teacher Ambassador. This qualification enables her not only to bring advanced knowledge of epigenetics directly into her own classroom but also to deliver professional development training to other science teachers across Ireland. Through this ambassador role, she will contribute to a wider network dedicated to enhancing science education and promoting up-to-date teaching practices.

This achievement represents a major milestone for Presentation Secondary School and reflects its ongoing commitment to excellence in STEM education. By investing in innovative teaching and supporting staff in accessing international opportunities, the school ensures that its students benefit from the most current scientific thinking and methodologies.

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At a time when science and technology are increasingly central to society, initiatives like this highlight the importance of equipping young people with a deep and relevant understanding of the world around them. Through achievements such as Marie’s, Presentation Secondary School continues to position itself at the forefront of science education, both nationally and across Europe.