STEM at Solefield

STEM lessons (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) are delivered to pupils throughout the school. 

These lessons take the form of half-termly topics throughout the school, using a project-based learning approach in which students are introduced to a problem or challenge that they need to solve. Individuals, pairs or groups then present their solution to their peers. The projects will synthesise all four elements of STEM through project based around:

• Practical Action: solving real-life problems, for example: water shortages, clean water, climate change 
• Information Technology: using computing and programming alongside the design process, for example: programmable Lego or Stop Motion videos 
• Design Technology: construction to fulfil a brief, for example: model cars or bridges 
• Awards: working towards CREST awards, suitable for each year group 

How STEM appears beyond the curriculum? 

Throughout the course of the year, all pupils are given the opportunity to attend clubs, such as Engineering and Computing Clubs, along with Lego, Robotics, Design, Coding or Construction.  

STEM is an option for the Year 7 and 8 pupils to take as part of the Scholarship Pathway program. This not only provides the children who elect it to look in more detail at STEM projects and gain a greater insight into different aspects of STEM, they are also able to undertake a range of different experiences to demonstrate the opportunities STEM allows. This may include visiting the BETT Show (British Educational Training and Technology Show), the Big Bang Fair or educational visits to workplaces that utilise STEM. All of these offer that insight and inspiration. The Scholars are also instrumental in the delivery of our Solefield STEM Week. 

How does STEM help Solefield pupils?

We believe STEM within the curriculum and as part of the school’s extra-curricular provision helps raise academic standards in all of the STEM subjects. 

• It supports the children in developing skills required for life, namely communication, collaboration and critical thinking skills.  
• Engage and inspire a wide range of students through work and projects that they are interested in and passionate about. 
• Provide increased awareness and insight into STEM-based careers, and create a clear pathway for children to see the link between the subject at school and a career utilising STEM. 

We were FINALISTS in Muddy's Best School Awards. Click here to read more.

To read more about our Director of STEM, Mr Buddden, please click here.