EDUCATION
fly- o-planes, code through a maze with robots and use VR goggles to complete challenges. “Students are rewarded with medals and an invite back to the finals for the winners, which is a great way to engage the children and get them excited about STEAM,” explains Rob. Stoke College pupils in different year groups are developing games, coding robots and creating apps as well as working towards their bronze, silver and gold Inspiring Digital Enterprise Awards. The Perse School, meanwhile, continues to run its own highly successful coding competition – open to other schools (and growing every year) – which offers challenge and enjoyment at every stage. “The very best students have the chance to extend themselves at the top end of the competition,” says Paul Baker. “You want to stretch everybody and find a way of doing that in a naturally differentiating way in which everyone gets some positive feedback and a chance to benefit from what they’ve learned.” There are also opportunities for collaboration and group projects that involve finding new ways of using AI to solve real problems, such as summoning help if an elderly person has a fall. “Computer science is very rich in coming up with these ideas,” says Paul. Anyone still doubting just how much emphasis is given to STEM should check It’s a great way to get the children excited about STEAM
out the packed programme that takes place during Science Week each year. Activities at schools in the area range from CRISPR gene editing and brain dissection (The Perse School) topics linked to the restoration of the Bayeux Tapestry (Sancton Wood), contests to beat the teacher in a Countdown -style competition and build the best roller coaster marble run – as well as a session on AI technology (Stoke College). What’s clear is whether engaging in lessons within or outside the classroom, the way schools approach STEM subjects is constantly evolving. The ultimate goal is to inspire the next generation to develop, create and innovate in potentially world- transforming ways.
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK APRIL 2024 73
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