Welcome to the  latest STEM newsletter  for Secondary Schools and FE Colleges from your local STEM Ambassador Hub.


A huge welcome to Dr Katy Johnson who has joinied the See Science team since September - Katy is based in North Wales and will be delivering some of the IET Faraday workshops as well as working on the STEM Amnbassador Programme.

We have been busy working with Ambassadors to support school events as well and community events and online webinars during Septmeber and October. We are  looking forward to another busy half term before Christmas and will be highlighting resources, competitions, grants and sharing more details of local STEM events in your area and online. 

There are several new STEM engagement opportunities available for the forthcoming half term. STEM Ambassadors are still keen to offer as many enrichment opportunities as possible to learners and we welcome requests for STEM Ambassadors to help with any enrichment opportunity - please contact us directly to discuss your individual need.


Please encourage new colleagues to register with STEM Learning in order to receive the See Science newsletter in the future using the link www.stem.org.uk/user/register and then opt to receive newsletters.

See Science have a facebook page where we will also be sharing lots of new ideas regularly - please like or follow the page.

Please don't hesitate to contact us if we can support the teaching of STEM subjects.

With best wishes,
The See Science Team

News from your STEM Ambassador Partner in Wales

Katy Johnson joins the See Science Team  and is based in North Wales.


Her role is STEM Engagement Officer where she liaises with teachers, employers, educators and community groups to support enrichment activities including the IET® Faraday Challenge Days.
Katy studied Chemistry at the University of York receiving her degree in 1990 and D.Phil in 1993. After working in industry for 12 years, Katy gained her PGCE in 2006 and has since taught secondary school science in schools, including to help set up an online tutoring service.
Katy has joined See Science as she is passionate to bring science to life outside of the classroom and to instigate a curiosity about the world around us.

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Swansea Science Festival 

The Swansea Science Festival returned  on the weekend of  26th and 27th October 10am - 4pm, at the National Waterfront Museum -the largest Festival of its kind in Wales! We were delighted that the festival welcomed 2120 people through the doors on Saturday and  2784 on the Sunday.

The Festival kicked off with a pre-weekend highlight at the Taliesin on Friday, 25th October, featuring 'The Magical Mr West' and his enchanting performance, Crafty Fools. The grand finale on Monday, 28th October, showcased the much-loved TV presenter Andy Day with his exciting show, Andy’s Dino Rap. 

Throughout the weekend there were free  exhibitions showcasing groundbreaking research at Swansea University where members of the public could just drop in to explore hydrogen energy, meet robotic dogs and cats, uncover the secrets of ancient Egyptian mummification, and even learn how to love a maggot!
The Swansea University Maggot Research Group have spent many years
looking at the science behind a particular wound therapy, available worldwide,
and on UK NHS Prescription, called Maggot Therapy.

We have discovered and isolated key antibacterial and biological molecules
secreted by maggots, which work to disinfect and heal chronic wounds.
BUT, public awareness and knowledge regarding the clinical use of maggots to
heal wounds is not very well communicated or understood in the UK, nor are
these lovely and useful creatures looked upon very favourably by the public! The Love a Maggot! exhibit is designed to turn the fear, disgust or disdain for
maggots on its head! It aims to change the cultural pre-existing negative perceptions towards maggots, and showcase what these marvellous maggots
can do, the science behind what they do, and whythey should be revered and loved by all!!

There were also lots of hands-on workshops and inspiring talks that delve into the mysteries of oceans, the wonders of electricity, and the incredible stories of people shaping our world and  highlights over the weekend  included a science rap workshop with presenter Jon Chase, insightful talks with TikTok star Big Manny, renowned explorer Ray Mears, and wildlife TV presenter Megan McCubbin.

Whether you're making, exploring, or discovering, there was  something to inspire everyone at the Swansea Science Festival 

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Institution of Civil Engineers(ICE) Wales Annual Awards Dinner

 

STEM Ambassador Wales staff, Hayley and Louise, were delighted to be invited along to the Institution of Civil Engineers(ICE) Cymru Annual Awards Dinner. The Institution of Civil Engineers is the world's oldest professional engineering body. 

 

The ICE STEM Ambassador of the Year Award 2024 was awarded to Dominic Henson AtkinsRéalis. Dominic has worked extensively to encourage young people into the industry. Dominic’s award was presented by ICE President Prof. (Dr) Anusha Shah.

 

It was a wonderful celebration of the successes of the ICE members in Wales.  Congratulations to all award recipients.

Quote from Dominic (ICE STEM Ambassador of the year)

I wanted to become a STEMM ambassador to spread awareness of apprenticeships. When I was in school I was told I should go to university and when I said I didn't want to, I received nearly no support or guidance. Through my sessions I'm hopefully showing pupils other opportunities to enter employment.

 

Over the past year, I have actively engaged with students in schools and colleges through various initiatives, including careers fairs, presentations, Q&A panels, and mock interviews. I find great fulfilment in these sessions, as they provide an opportunity to share my journey and inspire students to explore different career paths and avenues into industry.

 

Winning this award is incredibly meaningful to me. It represents not only personal recognition but also a validation of the hard work and dedication I have invested in supporting students. This award motivates me to continue sharing my experiences, and I hope to inspire others to become STEMM Ambassadors as well.

 

Martin Gallimore (STEM Ambassador of the Year - Certificate of Commendation)

 

“The civil engineering industry needs a diverse workforce with a broad range of skills and knowledge to deliver a project from inception to completion. I became a STEM Ambassador to ensure that as many young people as possible are given the opportunity to see and understand first-hand the range of rewarding careers that could be available to them.

I have always sought to use a range of methods to engage and inspire young people, including; providing careers advice, offering tailored work experience placements, setting real-world projects to develop their skills, providing site visits, delivering technical talks and curriculum targeted activities directly aimed to support their education. I have also sought to engage pupils of all ages ranging from five years up to university as I feel they are never too young to light that spark of interest and enthusiasm.

It is always so rewarding to hear from young people that they have been inspired to consider a career in civil engineering as a result of my engagement, and to receive feedback that the activity has been engaging or beneficial to their education. Wherever possible I seek to obtain feedback either written or verbal to help me improve.

Being recognised by the ICE for my STEM work was really great, and hopefully it will encourage others to become Ambassadors to help inspire the next generation of engineers.”

Online events in Wales

SPACE - National Engineering Day

Wednesday, November 13th 10-11amJoin us as we find out about the exciting space work happening in Wales.REGISTER TO ATTEND AND RECEIVE A RECORDING OF THE EVENT if you are unable to attend at 10am.

This online event is aimed at mainly aimed at Yr 5/Yr 6 teachers but others are equally welcome to join

Come along and meet our STEM Ambassadors who work within the space sector or help to educate the public about the space industry in Wales. You will have the opportunity to ask ANYTHING!!!! Why did they choose the job? What is the most exciting thing about their job? Do they get to travel the world?  Please book here

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Thursday, November 21st 4.00pm to 4.30pm. STEM into Christmas

Join us for a sack full of Christmassy STEM ideas for your classroom or STEM Club!

 IF YOU CAN'T JOIN ON THE DAY, REGISTER AND RECEIVE A VIDEO RECORDING!

We will demonstrate a variety of fun STEM activities with a Christmas twist suitable for primary classrooms and secondary STEM Clubs. Please book here

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Teacher CPD: Getting to Grips with Graphs Tuesday 19 November, 4–5pm, GMT, online

Royal Society of Chemistry

Hosted by Rebecca Laye and Ross Christodoulou

From WJEC examiner feedback we know learners struggle with graph drawing under the pressure of exams, so how can we best support learners to develop their science graph drawing skills? In this month’s Welsh chemistry teacher network we are tackling drawing graphs and suggesting approaches to this challenging topic. For more information go here

National Events

Digital Futures Virtual Careers Fair

The Department for Education’s Unit for Future Skills suggests that digital skills are critical to the future of most jobs, while the Department for Culture, Media and Sport found such skills required for 82% of all jobs posted online. It's therefore crucial to give your students an opportunity to explore their future in digital careers.

With our free Digital Futures Virtual Career Fair, running from 4 to 8 November 2024, you can inspire the next generation of technology innovators and help your students explore exciting career opportunities in the UK’s digital and tech sectors.

Accessible anytime, anywhere with just a computer or tablet, this virtual fair eliminates the barriers presented by in-person events and effortlessly integrates into your classroom. It allows all students to participate, saving you valuable time and resources. Sign up here for more information 

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Protecting our Planet mission!  12 November 2024

This year, on 12 November, support Protecting Our Planet Day. #POP24 is full of climate discussions and activities, with a special focus on how we can protect our Earth – from space!  

Protecting Our Planet Day (POP) is the inspiring live-streamed event for schools brought to you by the UK Space Education Office (ESERO-UK) at STEM Learning and in collaboration with the European Space Agency and the UK Space Agency. 

Join us on Tuesday 12th November when a world full of experts and leading researchers - passionate people working to protect our planet from here on Earth and from space - pop into your classroom.

Register for POP24 and pop in and out of sessions across the day with your class or whole school.

 

Competitions

First Lego League 2024-2025

2024-25 FIRST LEGO League SUBMERGED season has officially begun!

This season, children will learn about how and why people explore the oceans. Our discoveries beneath the ocean surface teach us how this complex ecosystem supports a healthy future for the plants and animals that live there.. We are really excited to see all of the amazing and creative ideas that we know will be produced this season. We will be hosting 4 competitions in Wales 
Ebbw Vale: 27 March 2025
Cardiff: 13 March 2025
Pembrokeshire: 22 March 2025
Merthyr Tydfil: 11 March 2025
If you would like more information please contact enquiries@see-science.co.uk

Schools can apply for FIRST LEGO League Funding Packages. More information here
 

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The Big Bang Competition

Know the next space explorer or climate change hero? Got an idea that will transform people’s lives?

Inspire inquisitive minds to think big, challenge facts, ask questions and invent solutions with the UK’s top annual science, engineering and technology competition. Young people are amazing – help them shine and change the world.

Join the fun! (…and develop skills along the way)

  • Build confidence and teamwork skills
  • Solve problems
  • Get expert feedback
  • Celebrate and share your work

The Big Bang UK Young Scientists & Engineers Competition is free, and is open to young people in the UK aged 11 to 18 in state-funded secondary education, who are home educated or who enter as part of a community group. Competitors can only enter one project, either on their own or as part of a team. 
 

Grants

The Ironmongers' Company STEM Grants

In response to the much publicised skills gap in the British engineering industry, the Ironmongers’ Foundation wishes to support initiatives that encourage talented young people to study science subjects at school and go on to pursue engineering-related further education or vocational training. The Foundation works in partnership with other organisations to deliver specific projects, which must meet the following criteria:

  • Grants are made to registered or exempt charities only. Projects involving corporate partners must have charitable purposes and be for public benefit, not private gain.
  • Activities must be within the UK, with a preference for urban areas outside London and particularly areas in the north and midlands with a manufacturing presence.
  • Preference will be given to projects engaging young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Participants must be under the age of 25.
  • Activities must be additional to those funded by government or other sources e.g. covered by school budgets. The Foundation prefers to support smaller projects where its contribution can make a real difference.
  • Projects should have clear objectives and measurable outcomes.

Deadlines are December 1st    Details here.

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Grant applications for British Science Week 2025 close soon

Is your school keen to run events for British Science Week, but in need of a helping hand?With the support of UK Research and Innovation, we provide Kick Start Grants to help schools in challenging circumstances organise their own activities and events during British Science Week. Usually opened in autumn, the grant scheme aims to engage children who might not otherwise choose to participate in science, and to promote cross-curricular learning. All kinds of events and activities are eligible for support!We have made some improvements to the Kick Start Grants.

Instead of having four grants of different amounts, we’ve simplified things and there is now one grant of £400 for your school to run science activities during British Science Week. The Kick Start Grant we gave out in previous years was worth £300, so the majority of recipients will receive more money!

Who can apply and how to apply ? Find out here

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Inclusion and Equity Network -Improving inclusion and equity through developing and enhancing learner science capital

How can you do this through the Science Capital Teaching Approach?Interested to know more?

  • Want to know how you can develop your pedagogy at classroom level and with wider school impact in order to better engage all learners in the relevance of science and boost future aspirations and improve social justice?
  • Want to get theoretical background and practical advice on how to use the principles of Science Capital Teaching Approach** – an approach with a long term research evidence-base -  in order to positively influence learner’s science capital* and promote learner engagement, motivation and future aspirations?
  • Want to connect with a wide reaching network to share and discover opportunities for your learners and community to open doors widely to their ambitions, aspirations and make for more accessible, inclusive and equitable opportunities for now and the future?

For academic year 20024-2025, we have two cohorts – Primary and Secondary -  beginning their exploration of all aspects of Science Capital Teaching Approach. Through half termly 45 minutes online TeachMeets we will take you through the Science Capital Teaching Approach – which is perfectly aligned with CfW rationale and priorities -  and support you in developing this for your specific school contexts. There are no expensive teaching resources or curriculum documents to purchase – it is simply about tweaking how you currently do things! You get free access to our toolkit of advice, resources and more. We can also offer personalised in school coaching too. And wait, there’s more -  as a cohort member, you also get access to collaborate with our wider network partners and our termly TeachMeets there. And the cost? Completely free of charge for everything.
If you’d like to know more or are interested in becoming a group member of #Team Science and Physics/ #TÎM Gwyddoniaeth a ffiseg then drop me a line at Julia.Jenkins@IOP.org

 

Your local STEM Ambassadors Partner

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ambassadors@see-science.co.uk
02920 344727