10 March, 2023
It’s British Science Week from 10 to 19 March, and in recognition of this, here we share a great primary school STEM initiative taking place across the trust.
Pupils from Ormiston Cliff Park Primary Academy and other primaries across the trust have taken part in an exciting STEM competition to showcase their innovative thinking and problem-solving skills.
The competition was part of an event series held at each of OAT’s primary academies, to inspire pupils to solve various engineering problems using LEGO SPIKE kits. Participants were tasked with solving real-world scenarios within industries such as medicine, technology, transport, finance and space travel.
During the event, pupils built and programmed their creations using LEGO bricks, computers and various other electronic resources to bring their engineering solutions to life. Some of the projects completed include:
To conclude the event, pupils worked together to construct a final project which involved them building an escape vehicle to get off an island inhabited by deadly dinosaurs. The vehicle needed to exhibit key design features which would maximise their chances for a successful escape, and children had to justify the thoughts behind their designs. The final result demonstrated an impressively high standard of thoughtful innovation and imagination.
The event series (part of the wider STEMFest competition) seeks to help children truly recognise the full and wide-reaching societal impacts of STEM, whilst also being able to develop greater skills and knowledge in each subject.
STEMFest, organised by OAT and sponsored by Laser 2000, aims to engage young minds in purpose-driven STEM projects to address societal issues. Through the competition, the trust encourages pupils of all ages to take part by thinking outside the box to build and programme innovative real-world solutions.
Simon Shanks, senior lead practitioner of science said: “A huge congratulations to all pupils who took part in the event – they were a total credit to themselves, their parents and their schools alike. It has been such a joy to watch their bright young minds work to solve complex issues with innovative solutions to such an impressive standard.
“This event series is not only an exciting opportunity to engage pupils, but also paves the way for trust-wide involvement in STEM, powered by imagination and creativity.”
Category: News
Tags: British Science Week 2023, BSW, OCPPA, Primary STEM initiative, STEM
