The Blue Star Programme teaches primary school pupils about European cultures, diversity and the EU through creative activities and projects which complement the national primary curriculum. The aim of the Programme is to foster better knowledge and understanding of the EU and how it affects our lives among Irish primary pupils through fun, creative classroom projects and activities.   Since the first year of the Programme in 2011-2012, the Blue Star Programme has had just over 1,200 primary schools registrations across the country, as the Programmes grows from strength to strength!  How does it work?  Pupils of all ages, from primary schools all over Ireland, are challenged to get creative and think about Europe by carrying out projects in relation to four key elements: the history, geography, culture and creativity, and Institutions of the EU.   The Blue Star Programme is designed to be as curriculum friendly as possible so it can fit in with lesson plans already in place.  It also aims to draw in the wider school and local community to engage and get involved.   One of the advantages of this Programme is its flexibility: you, the teacher, can decide whether your entire school or individual classes participate.  Most of all, this is a fun Programme that encourages pupils and teachers to be as creative as possible in their project work, particularly in the use of online technologies and tools.  Schools interested in participating:   If schools are interested in taking part in the Programme, or just to learn more about what is involved, they can visit www.bluestarprogramme.ie. Registration for the thirteenth year of the programme is open until 11 October 202, schools can register at the link below. www.bluestarprogramme.ie/register/ - The Blue Star Programme Team  The Blue Star Programme is a venture of the Communicating Europe Initiative, supported by the Office of the Minister of State for European Affairs, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of Education and Skills, the European Commission Representation in Ireland, the European Parliament Liaison Office in Ireland and European Movement Ireland who are the National Implementation Body of the Programme.