The Blue Star Programme is a vibrant, creative initiative that introduces primary school pupils to European cultures, heritage, and citizenship. Through hands-on activities, cross-cultural projects, and whole-school celebrations, children develop a broader understanding of Europe and their place within it — all while having fun and learning in meaningful, exciting ways.

What Is the Blue Star Programme?

The Blue Star Programme encourages pupils to learn about:

• EU countries, cultures, and traditions

• European institutions and values

• The role of Ireland within the EU

• Global citizenship, cooperation, and diversity

Learning takes place through curriculum-linked projects, art, research, themed activities, and collaborative work with other schools across Europe.

Our Journey at Waterford ETNS

Waterford Educate Together National School has proudly taken part in the Blue Star initiative for many years, engaging pupils in creative and engaging learning experiences.

In 2023, our school expanded this work by collaborating with two European partner schools:

• École Internationale Gaston Thorn, Luxembourg

• Volksschule Kitzbühel, Austria

These partnerships allowed pupils to exchange ideas, share artwork, compare cultures, and learn directly from peers across Europe — bringing global citizenship to life in the classroom.

WETNS was one of only 30 schools in Ireland to take part in the pilot Blue Star Programme back in 2011, and we have been proudly involved ever since.

Europe Day Celebrations

Every year, all classes at WETNS participate in Blue Star activities that culminate in a joyful, whole-school celebration for Europe Day in May.

Activities often include:

• A full-school assembly

• Art and project displays

• Cultural presentations

• Music, language, and dance activities

• European flag projects created by pupils

Children especially enjoy designing flags from different European countries