Techno Challenge - supporting STEM in the community

Techno Challenge is an annual one-day event, hosted by St Leonards School for up to 20 state primary schools from across Fife and Tayside. Now in its 23rd year, Techno Challenge sees teams of Primary 5 and Primary 6 pupils participate in a day of STEM challenges, covering subject areas ranging from Physics and Chemistry to animation and a Maths Relay. Points are accumulated, with prizes awarded to the highest scoring small and large schools.

Aims

Since its inception 23 years ago, Techno Challenge has championed participation in STEM subjects for hundreds of pupils from local primary schools, in many cases introducing them to practical science experiments in fully-equipped laboratories, and instilling in them a love of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. The challenge day has grown and developed over the years, now incorporating digital animation using iPads and introducing pupils to the latest developments in technology.

Background

Techno Challenge has been held annually at St Leonards for the past 23 years, welcoming teams from up to 20 schools each year in order to boost engagement in STEM.

Resources

Challenges are devised and run by members of St Leonards staff using the School’s classroom and laboratory facilities to deliver an exciting and varied programme of activities each year. Lunch, snacks and prizes are provided by St Leonards for all attendees.

Impact

This is event has become a staple of the school calendar, with state primaries looking forward to the day. Each year, the winning small and large schools and runners-up receive coverage in the local press, celebrating their achievements in STEM.

Pupil Involvement

St Leonards Senior School pupils act as guides throughout the day, and are partnered with visiting teams to ensure they find their way around the different challenge stations. Sixth Form International Baccalaureate students are also involved in running and demonstrating the activities.

Frequency

Techno Challenge is held annually during the Summer Term.