Diving into Creativity at W5 LIFE

This February, the excitement was palpable as schools from across Ireland made their way to Microsoft Dream Space at W5 LIFE for the live finale of the Dream Space Minecraft Education Competition – SEAcrets of the Deep, held in association with Belfast Harbour.

Students, both primary and secondary, took a deep dive into an immersive underwater world filled with creativity, innovation, and hidden wonders. This year’s challenge encouraged young minds to think outside the box, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills, while building their own ocean research vessels as well as conducting a research project on an underwater creature. After months of hard work, the top 8 teams from across the country made their way to Dream Space at W5 LIFE to battle it out for the chance to be crowned champions.

While the judges deliberated and made their decision the teams were able to hear about the great work that Belfast Harbour are doing in our local area. They also had the chance to meet Justin Edward, Director of Learning Experiences at Minecraft, who chatted with them about all things Minecraft and answered their questions.

A Sea of Learning and Discovery

More than just a competition, SEAcrets of the Deep showcased the incredible educational value of Minecraft Education. By integrating marine conservation, environmental science, and oceanography into an engaging digital experience, students were able to explore real-world challenges in a fun and interactive way. The competition proved how game-based learning can be a powerful tool in the classroom, sparking curiosity and deepening understanding across a variety of subjects.

Minecraft Education is designed to align with school curriculum, offering a dynamic platform where learners can develop skills in areas such as reading, maths, and coding - all through play. Whether exploring ancient history or tackling modern sustainability issues, students of all ages and abilities can engage in a truly inclusive and creative learning experience.

Celebrating Success

This year’s competition saw Kilmoyle Primary School making waves by securing both first and second place, while Rampark National School took home third place. Each team’s incredible work reflected not only their technical abilities but also their creativity, collaboration, and passion for learning.

The competition highlighted the power of education and technology coming together to inspire the next generation of thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers.

Interested in bringing Minecraft Education into your classroom? W5 LIFE offers free Minecraft Education workshops at Dream Space, providing an exciting way for students to develop essential skills through play.

Stay tuned for more opportunities and let’s continue to inspire young minds - one block at a time!