Introducing primary school aged children to the fundamentals of STE(A)M

FunSTEM introduces primary school-aged children aged between 9-12 to the fundamentals of science, technology, engineering and maths by framing STEM-based learning as an exciting and enjoyable experience.

FunSTEM aims to prevent negative perceptions of STEM and lack of self-confidence in pupils before these issues arise, by fostering an image of STEM as an activity that everyone can enjoy equally, whoever they are and whatever their level of ability.

WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT FunSTEM

- Jennifer Edelsten, Burnside Primary

“FunSTEM has been an extremely engaging, inspirational and motivational venture for the children. It has helped to nurture the children's interest in STEM at this key stage when they are moving on to secondary school.”

What do they do?

For 4 weeks, primary school children work in teams of six on STEM-themed projects based around real-world problems that need solving, tackling anything from environmental issues to waste management or healthy eating.

Where do the events take place?

FunSTEM can be delivered to individual class-groups, or can be hosted in a secondary school for groups of feeder-primaries as part of a programme of transition-work. Senior secondary pupils can be invited to support the teams as mentors.

What will be involved?

Launch Day: can be hosted by a local secondary school or delivered in class. Pupils are introduced to their project and take part in STEM-based team building activities. EDT delivery staff organise and deliver the day.

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At school: over 4 weeks, pupils work in class as teams of 6 with support from teaching staff. Pupils are expected to produce a model, complete a workbook and prepare a short presentation.

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Celebration and Assessment Day (CAD): EDT delivery-staff return to assess pupils’ finished projects. Pupils give a 5-minute presentation followed by Q&A session. Whilst winners are decided, pupils take part in a STEM-based problem-solving activity. Prizes are awarded for the best overall project and for teamwork.

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Previous projects include: My Healthy School, The Business of Recycling and The Eco Class

What are the benefits of FunSTEM?

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BENEFITS TO EMPLOYERS

  • Employers can support the programmes in a variety of ways – from hosting events on company premises to providing careers talks at a school.

  • Inspire young people to consider pursuing a STEM based career by engaging them in a mixture of activities

  • Engage and inspire under-represented groups, especially girls, and help them see that they too can access these interesting and rewarding careers

  • By supporting the event you are giving your company the opportunity to network and engage with the local community

  • Engage young people and help them shape their future study and career choices

If you are a partner/employer

BENEFITS TO EDUCATORS

  • Enhances the school curriculum and inspires young people to be more interested in STEM studies in the key years before they start their secondary education

  • 82% of teachers involved in FunSTEM 2016-17 believed that participation boosted their own personal and professional development

  • Opportunity to develop teachers contributing towards CPD

  • Provides a quality, interactive learning experience through stimulating hands-on activities

  • Develops the Personal, Learning and Thinking Skills (PLTS) of the students, by encouraging teamwork, creativity, problem solving, time management, and innovation

If you are an educator

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BENEFITS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

  • Prevents negative misconceptions of STEM subjects as “too hard” or “only for boys” by focusing on teamwork skills and developing confidence

  • Provides a quality, fun and interactive learning experience through stimulating hands-on activities

  • Provides young people with information about STEM careers and study routes

  • Engages and inspires young people to shape their own future choices

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If you are a young person