Girls in STEM

A day of hands on Science & Engineering activities and careers talks to encourage girls to consider STEM careers and to help boost their enthusiasm for STEM subjects. 

The three activities were Chemistry (lab session with bunsen burners), Psychology (learning how our brains work) and Engineering (session to design a water filter - run by students from Newcastle University) 

There were also two careers talks given by female Engineers. 

Aims

To introduce Primary pupils (girls) to STEM related activities and careers talks. To raise awareness of STEM subjects and help boost their enthusiasm for STEM subjects.

There was a need to raise awareness of STEM careers and the potential of learning STEM-related subjects in preparation for those careers.

Pupils gain an interest and enthusiasm for STEM-related activities and realise the potential of STEM-related careers.

Background

The need was identified several years ago by our Head of STEM and invitations were sent out to local state schools and selected independent schools. The popularity of the activities and increased demand to host similar events enabled the school to extend invitations on a regular basis. STEM days are now fixed events in the school calendar.

Resources

School facilities - well-equipped laboratories and knowledgeable staff; catering facilities; access to a communal space (hall); contacts with local university and industry. 

Our own teaching staff are involved (6) and 6 staff from participating schools; 2 female engineers give careers talks and 2 students from Newcastle University run an activity session.

Impact

Pupil and staff feedback from the participating schools helps inform future workshops and events and careful consideration is given to the long term impact of our partnerships with particular schools. Are more girls likely to take up careers in STEM-related subjects as a result of these events and has the perception of STEM increased in importance in those schools participating?

Pupil Involvement

Participating Schools 
State:

Kells Lane Primary  (14 girls) Year 5
 
King Edwards Primary (14 girls) Year 5

Independent:

Mowden Hall (27 girls) Years 5&6

 
 

Frequency

This event is an on-going event and it is likely to continue running for the foreseeable future.