The Tutor Who Changed Everything
Dr Karen Mooney, founder of The Science Room in Newry, is reshaping how children experience learning. Through one-to-one tutoring, after-school clubs and immersive STEM programmes, she helps young people across Northern Ireland build confidence, curiosity and a lasting interest in science.
Dr Karen Mooney leads The Science Room, an award-winning science hub that offers tutoring, clubs, holiday programmes and hands-on STEM learning for children of all ages. Her goal is simple: make science accessible, practical and engaging for every child who walks through the door.
A different kind of learning support
For Danielle Shortr from Newry, what started as simple home tutoring became something much more meaningful. When her daughter Erin first worked with Karen, the difference was clear.
Erin grew in confidence, began thinking more positively about her future and recognised her own strengths. Through regular conversations and steady encouragement, she found direction and is now working toward a science-related career.
Danielle describes Karen as more than a tutor — a trusted mentor and family friend.
Confidence that carries into school results
Danielle’s daughter Emily had been struggling with science at school and had little confidence in her ability. Danielle says Emily initially felt she “wasn’t good at it” and found the subject difficult to understand.
After a year working with Karen, the change was significant. Emily now enjoys science, understands the material and believes in her own ability. Her progress has been so strong that Danielle expects her to achieve a top GCSE grade in the subject.
Danielle credits that turnaround to the confidence Karen helped build.
Making science feel exciting, not intimidating
The Science Room focuses not only on subject knowledge but also on how children feel while learning. Sessions are designed to replace fear with curiosity and to make science feel approachable and enjoyable.
Children are encouraged to ask questions, explore ideas and understand how the world works. Parents often say their children come home energised and full of enthusiasm after sessions and clubs.
Danielle’s younger children now attend The Science Room’s after-school clubs and holiday programmes and are equally engaged.
A warm, encouraging teaching style
Danielle says Karen stands out because of her manner as much as her knowledge.
Many tutors can feel overly strict or formal. Karen’s approach is warm, calm and encouraging. Children feel comfortable, capable and supported. They are treated as individuals and helped to see what they can achieve.
Holiday clubs also give older students chances to support younger children, helping them build responsibility and self-belief in a natural way.
Learning that reaches beyond academics
The impact of The Science Room goes beyond exam performance. Parents report changes in confidence, motivation and independence.
Danielle says the support her children received has helped shape how they see themselves and their abilities. As a parent, she believes that kind of change is powerful.
Explore The Science Room
The Science Room in Newry offers:
- One-to-one science tutoring
- After-school clubs
- Holiday STEM programmes
- Hands-on learning experiences
Parents can learn more about programmes and availability by visiting the website or following The Science Room online to see curiosity in action.
