STEM Challenge 5: the Wetsuit Challenge was launched on 19^th November 2010. In this Challenge, GE and STEMNET are asking teams to design a unique wetsuit for Jimmy Goddard, one of Great Britain’s leading paratriathletes. Teams need to be registered by 17th January 2011. Their competition entries will be judged at local events in February 2011, with the national final being held at The Big Bang Fair on 15^th March 2011. Further information, resources and teacher guides can be found by visiting www.stemchallenges.net.

Children from The Grove Primary School in Melton Mowbray ‘clocked in’ at Carlton Laser Services factory in Leicester to investigate the role of the engineer recently. Dennis Kent, a STEM Ambassador and former owner of the company and his team invited 30 pupils aged 9-11 to become engineers for the day.  After a health and safety briefing the children followed the production process from taking an order over the phone, producing an estimate, designing parts on the computer, watching them being laser cut or punched out of steel and bent, welded and packed ready for the delivery. They learnt how, with the use of computer controlled robots, the company can produce goods 24 hours day, 7 days a week. 

After looking around the factory floor the children had an opportunity to quiz members of staff to find out how they became engineers, the importance of good customer service and how important each member of the team is to a successful company. The children were given a personalised clock made from sheet steel in the factory as a reminder of their visit. Elle, a Year 6 pupil, said, “It was fun and exciting.  Mohan taught us all about engineering and I thought the staff were very clever.”  

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Congratulations to the University of Northampton on scooping the prestigious national WISE Award for Outreach 2010; and in particular to Tricia Goodchild, Champion for Girls into Engineering at the University.  Working with Senior Lecturers in Engineering, Computing and Environmental Science Tricia is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to encouraging girls to consider careers in engineering.  She is instrumental in putting together an exciting programme of events to engage with primary and secondary pupils, parents and teachers. “Successful female role models are the key to dispelling the myths surrounding girls in engineering and that they can consider wider options”, said Tricia.   Tricia was recently presented with the award by Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, the Royal Patron of WISE (Women into Science, Engineering and Construction).  See pictures and read more about WISE here: http://www.wisecampaign.org.uk/parents_and_teachers/wise_awards.cfm

Loughborough-based, diversified technology company 3M Health Care recently hosted an interesting and informative placement day for fourteen Leicestershire teachers.  The placement provided teachers with an insight into 3M’s impressive use of science in the development and manufacture of the latest healthcare technologies.   During the day, teachers had the opportunity to talk to professionals to find out about applications of science theory to their working practices.  They also met 3M STEM Ambassadors who gave advice on science related career routes, qualifications, skills and progression within the company.  The Ambassadors often attend careers fairs and undertake presentations in schools aiming to inspire young people to consider a career or qualification choice linked to STEM subjects.   The teachers were given a tour of the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, which is a centre of expertise in the research, development and manufacturing of drug delivery technologies.  All the teachers gained a wealth of information to enrich their lessons, linked to 3M’s leading- edge healthcare technology products and services. Julie Owen, Communications Manager at 3M Health Care said; “As a company with innovation at its heart, we are particularly keen to support the science and technology curriculum relations programme and the Teachers Placement was a great way to strengthen links with many local schools and colleges.  We based the agenda on the teachers’ objectives to ensure their day away from the classroom was of maximum value.  It was a very rewarding event to host.” Craig Bowles from Newbridge High School, Coalville said; “A valuable aspect of the placement was to assure that curriculum delivery is still current in relation to industrial approach and practice.” Matthew Chamberlain from Limehurst High School, Loughborough commented; “Following the placement, I will be able to offer more sound advice to students with regards to careers in science.” This placement was organised by LEBC (Leicestershire Education Business Company) and supported by the Science Learning Centre East Midlands.  

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Name of Guest BloggerOdette Wells