Pupils studying STEM subjects at Longslade Community College in Birstall, Leicester, will soon be able to see renewable energy in action thanks to the 3M Loughborough Echo Community Awards. Incorporating a mini wind turbine and solar panel are just two of the ambitious plans for an eco garden being brought to life at the college through an award of £3000. Although the 3M Loughborough Echo Community Awards have been in existence for 14 years, 2009 was the first time an award was given for enhancing the teaching of STEM subjects in local middle and secondary schools.

The Longslade proposal, put forward by Head of Design Technology Jennifer Pethick, includes the growing of vegetables and herbs for Food Technology lessons, educating students on environmental and sustainability issues, and demonstrating renewable energy to support the teaching of Science and Design Technology. Competition for the award was fierce, with proposals from other schools ranging from holding a 'family rocket day' to illustrate forces and motion to developing a mentoring programme with local businesses for high achievers in maths and science.

The 2010 Community Awards, sponsored by diversified technology company 3M and the Loughborough Echo newspaper will be launched in March. Watch out for further details in the newspaper and through this blog.

Guestblogger: Rosalind Smith, 3M Health Care Limited