STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) came to life with a bang on the Isle of Wight last week as hundreds of school students from across the Island joined together for the hugely successful return of the Noël Turner Science Festival.
Year 5 and 6 pupils from 25 of the Island’s primary schools headed to Cowes Enterprise College last Thursday and Friday ready to have their curiosity sparked, where they were joined by students from the hosting school. Over 1,900 students watched an explosive live science show, got hands-on with interactive workshops and met with local STEM businesses.
Winchester Science Centre inspirers got the crowds going with their immersive live show. Students were taken on an exciting and explosive adventure through The Secret World of Gases. Myths were busted, innovations were explored and there were some awe-inspiring demos involving the mysterious liquid nitrogen and explosive hydrogen. Every school group got involved with interactive hands-on workshops. S
tudents were also tasked with using their STEM knowledge and teamwork to explore jet-propelled vehicles. They had to think like scientists, engineers and mathematicians to design and build a vehicle before testing how far they would travel.
And if all that action wasn’t enough, local businesses brought real-world examples of STEM to life. Students were able to try out a virtual reality flight simulator headset with the Island branch of the Royal Aeronautical Society. The Isle of Wight NHS Trust was on hand to showcase the diverse range of roles on the Island and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust highlighted how protecting seagrass will help benefit local marine life and people.
Sponsors Johnson Electric helped students discover how a mobile phone screen worked. And GKN Aerospace, also sponsors of the event, showcased some of the technology and materials used in their East Cowes-based facility.
The Thursday evening saw an engaging careers event, showcasing STEM careers to 45 young people between the ages of 14 and 18. 13 STEM industries and organisations showcased career pathways, vacancies and apprentice opportunities. They shared career stories and offered practical advice on what the students’ next steps might be.
Ben Ward, Chief Executive at Winchester Science Centre, said:
“Watching so many children engage with STEM over the past two days has been amazing. The Island is an inspirational place for STEM industries and our Charity hopes that these children will see STEM as a part of their future either through their careers or simply by empowering them make informed decisions which we believe can lead to healthier, happier and more sustainable lives.”
