ABOUT COMPASS
Connecting Our Marine Ports And School Synergy - COMPASS
COMPASS is a Shannon Foynes Port Company educational initiative designed to inspire Transition Year (TY) students to explore the future of the Shannon Estuary and the vital role of ports in regional development, sustainability, renewable energy, transport, and connectivity.
The COMPASS programme encourages students to think creatively and collaboratively while developing research, communication, digital media and presentation skills through project-based learning.
Through short film production, teamwork and engagement with real world industry topics, students gain valuable insight into how marine infrastructure, logistics, renewable energy and innovation can shape the future of their communities and the wider region.
Since its launch, COMPASS has brought together schools across Clare, Kerry, Limerick, and North Tipperary, creating strong connections between education, industry and the next generation of innovators.
The initiative reflects Shannon Foynes Port Company’s ongoing commitment to education, community engagement and supporting young people in understanding the opportunities connected to the Shannon Estuary and Ireland’s maritime future.
COMPASS aims to:
- Foster strong partnerships between schools and marine ports
- Increase awareness of Ireland’s maritime sector
- Inspire students to explore future education and career opportunities
- Encourage skills such as teamwork, research, and critical thinking.
Through these connections, the programme helps students see how their local port contributes to both the national economy and their own communities.
How It Works
Participating schools are partnered with their local port and invited to take part in a structured programme of engagement, which may include:
- Port visits and industry talks
- Collaborative project work
- Research into maritime and environmental topics
- Presentations or competition elements
Students work in teams to explore real-world challenges and opportunities within the maritime sector, developing practical skills while building confidence and creativity.
Why COMPASS Matters
Ireland’s ports are vital to the country’s economy and sustainability goals. COMPASS helps to:
- Bridge the gap between education and industry
- Highlight the importance of marine infrastructure
- Encourage informed and engaged future citizens
- Support the development of future talent in the maritime sector.
By connecting schools with ports, COMPASS ensures that young people are better equipped to understand and contribute to Ireland’s maritime future.
