STEM Enrichment
Our vision is to ignite a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) among all students, providing opportunities for exploration, discovery, and innovation. We aim to nurture a generation of problem-solvers and critical thinkers who are equipped to tackle the challenges of the future. Through a programme of enrichment activities, we inspire students to pursue STEM pathways in higher education and beyond.
Enrichment Opportunities
Our STEM enrichment opportunities are designed to cater to a diverse range of interests and abilities. These include:
Weekly Coding Club
Open to students across all year groups, the coding club fosters skills in programming and computational thinking. Students work on a variety of projects, from creating simple games to developing applications, and have the opportunity to participate in national coding challenges.
1. STEM Workshop Days
These themed days immerse students in hands-on activities across STEM disciplines. Workshops are facilitated by external experts, such as engineers, scientists, and tech professionals, to provide real-world insights and inspire career aspirations.
2. STEM Assemblies and Guest Speakers
Regular assemblies feature guest speakers from universities, industries, and cutting-edge research fields. These events showcase the breadth of STEM opportunities, highlight diverse career pathways, and motivate students to aim high.
3. National and Local Competitions
Students are encouraged to participate in competitions such as the UK Maths Challenge, Science Olympiads, and engineering design contests. These provide platforms to apply their learning in innovative ways and gain recognition for their talents.
4. STEM Ambassador Programme
Older students with a passion for STEM serve as ambassadors, mentoring younger students and leading activities during clubs and workshop days. This peer-to-peer approach fosters leadership skills and a culture of collaboration.
5. STEM Educational Visits
Trips to places such as science museums, universities, technology hubs, and industrial facilities offer students first-hand experiences of STEM in action. These visits bridge classroom learning with practical application.
6. Project-Based Learning Opportunities
Students engage in extended STEM projects, such as building robotics systems or developing sustainable engineering solutions, often culminating in presentations to peers and professionals.
Closing the Gender Gap in STEM
We are committed to addressing the gender imbalance in STEM fields by actively encouraging girls to participate in enrichment activities and aspire to careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Our initiatives include:
1. Girls in STEM Campaigns
Targeted campaigns challenge stereotypes and celebrate the achievements of women in STEM. Through posters, assemblies, and media, we promote diverse role models, fostering ambition and confidence in female students.
2. Girls-Only STEM Clubs and Workshops
We offer exclusive sessions designed to create a supportive environment for girls to explore STEM activities without external pressures. These sessions focus on building confidence and sparking interest in traditionally male-dominated areas.
3. Mentorship by Female STEM Professionals
We connect students with inspiring female professionals in STEM industries who provide guidance, share experiences, and act as role models. These mentors help students visualise a future in STEM careers.
4. Partnerships with Organisations Supporting Women in STEM
Collaborations with external organisations, such as Women in Engineering and Girls Who Code and STEMETTES, provide access to additional resources, workshops, and networking opportunities.
5. Tracking and Monitoring Gender Representation
We monitor participation in STEM enrichment activities by gender, identifying and addressing any disparities. Targeted interventions ensure all students have equitable access to opportunities.
For more information please contact our STEM lead Mr Perkin: info@harrisscienceeastlondon.org.uk
