Pupil referral unit engages with unique STEM project

Twelve pupils aged between 13 and 14 took part in the project at Educational Diversity, which was adapted from the traditional 10-week Go4SET concept into an intense three-day programme where sessions included hands-on team building exercises, research and project management. The pupils were given a brief to research and design their very own eco-classroom and, on the third day, had to present a model of the classroom, along with their methodology and ideas, to a panel of assessors.

The project was deemed extremely successful, with pupils exceeding expectations and staff from Educational Diversity were thrilled with the outcomes. In feedback after the event, 100%of the young people said they felt it had developed their research skills, while 91 % said the experience had improved their ability to work in a team.

In 2017, Blackpool was identified as an 'area of opportunity' by the Careers and Enterprise Company and Government funding was made available to give young people in schools and colleges access to employers, to enable them to have the encounters they need to be inspired and prepared for the world of work. Educational Diversity was interested in EDT and the Go4SET programme but quickly realised that, due to the diverse needs of its pupils, some major modification of the programme would be required.

Educational Diversity Head teacher, Wendy Casson, said:

"Our young people often have a number of challenges to face on a daily basis. We do everything we can to support them in overcoming some of these challenges, to enable them to become confident young people who are able to achieve at the highest level. The fact that the Go4SET was adapted to suit our learning requirements was an opportunity not to be missed. Our young people got so much out of the experience in terms of their own personal development and ability to work as a team. We are so proud of them all.”

Cllr Kathryn Benson, Blackpool Council Cabinet Member for Schools and Learning, commented: “No child should miss out on educational opportunities. I am thrilled that the students really benefitted from the programme and enjoyed it as well. The students involved I am sure have been inspired by this experience and it will help them in their learning journey.”

The project was deemed extremely successful, with pupils exceeding expectations and staff at the Educational Diversity were thrilled with the outcomes. In feedback after the event, 100 per cent said they felt it had developed their research skills, while 91 percent said the experience had improved their ability to work in a team.