Festive good wishes to all STEM Ambassadors

Hoping you enjoy a peaceful holiday and a calm end to a very full year. The articles chosen for the last newsletter of 2018 reflect a variety of engagement across the region. STEM engagement can vary a great deal – much depending on access to STEM Ambassadors in each area, often depending on whether a school or community is hard to reach.
We want to ensure everyone has as much opportunity to benefit from the STEM Ambassador programme, this means introducing new events such as Spring into STEM in Country Parks, Resource Kits deployed at Libraries in rural areas and being as inclusive as possible with support requested for groups such as the Llangefni Community Pilot Programme who work with disadvantaged and disability pupils and the Deaf Children’s Association.

By this means we raise the profile both of the extensive opportunities of a career in STEM and the value of your important contribution to the functioning of our society underpinned by STEM professionals with their skills and expertise,

Sian

CONTENTS

News
 

STEM Ambassador opportunities
 


 
 

LATEST STEM NEWS
 

DVLA driving in the fast lane for Coding Challenge!
 

STEM Ambassadors at the DVLA Swansea hosted the annual finals of their Wales Coding Challenge #DVLACodeChallenge


Over the last months Primary and Secondary Schools across Wales have worked on building a computer game based on a theme set by the DVLA and associate partners. Teams could select from:

  • Preventing Fire Hazards in the home

  • Identifying and avoiding Cyber Crime

  • Life on Planet Gaia

  • Air Ambulance transfer

  • Plastic pollution

  • Earthquake response

The final was a high energy event with over 250 pupils attending from as far away as Conwy and Llanidloes to Usk and Caerleon.

All school finalists were awarded prizes – a new initiative this year was the category for 11 – 14 yrs pupils.
The STEM Ambassador team at the DVLA were in top form as ever – though must have taken some time to recover after a very full day.

Other STEM Ambassadors attending were

  • The new CGI Team with a great interactie stand

  • Debbie Crockard from Marine Conseration Society held sessions in the Ocean Dome

  • British Computer Society with Paul Bulmer leading a Lego Mindstorms actiity

  • Derek Sheehan and Daid Hargreaves supporting the STEM Ambassador stand


The final was hosted by Lucy Owen of BBC Wales - each team accompanied by a DVLA STEM Ambassador was interviewed before a live vote and judging panel (X-Factor style!)
STEM AmbassadorsKaren Pitt and Mark Jones are to be congratulated for their diligent work on this successful project.

And congratulations to

  • The Cathedral School Cardiff winning the Secondary School category for Identifying Cyber Crime Game

  • Blaen Baglan  Port Talbot winning the Primary category with the theme Life on Planet Gaia

Powys schools waste no time learning about sustainability
 

North Powys pupils were welcomed to Cefn Lea Park near Newtown to experience the second Your Green Futures event. Students from five local secondary schools engaged in workshops, talks and a career pathways exhibition, all designed to ignite their interest in sustainability, green energy and STEM-related skills.

The event formed part of the Severn Wye’s Our Future’s People project, which encourages pupils to help reduce their schools’ energy use. Pupils from Newtown, Llanidloes, John Beddoes and Llanfyllin, all spent the day working with local businesses including Oil4Wales, Swansea University, Siemens and Welsh Water. STEM Ambassadors presented workshops, worked with pupils and provided advice and support to the pupils and their teachers.

STEM Ambassador Cara Bennett commented: ‘I have really enjoyed meeting the pupils, they are so keen to find out more about STEM careers. This kind of event is very useful, as it gives pupils a real insight into the possibilities available in Powys’.
The students attending were encouraged to think about what careers are available locally, they were guided to ask each employer a range of questions about what interested them most about their job and what they wanted to be when they were young. Conversely, the businesses were encouraged to pick students to employ based on their questions and interest in the company.
For more information about the Your Green Future events go to this link

Heidi Purnell STEM Ambassador Partnerships

 

STEM Ambassadors Light up the Sky at St Julians Primary Newport
 

Usk Astronomy STEM Ambassadors delivered a fantastic programme of Stargazing from the comfort of their Mobile Planetarium at St Julians.
The team of 3 made a huge effort at the school providing 6 sessions on 19th November for the Juniors followed by 3 sessions on 20th November for Infants. All teachers and 270 pupils in total were inspired by the event.

STEM Ambassador Lynda Patchin reported “The children were very well behaved, asking excellent questions like why do stars twinkle but not planets?”
The school were very grateful for this wonderful opportunity provided by inspirational Astronomers.

“Of course we would love them to return in the future- this would be great! Dave and Linda were so lovely”
Karen Hollings Science Coordinator

Photos of the shoes lined up (children remove shoes before the session) and a very pleased class outside the Planetarium.
 
 

A Conwy Feast with STEM Ambassadors at the table!

A strong team of STEM Ambassadors supported this public event: Charlotte Pritchard, Jim Langley, Naga Swarooop, Elin Sams, Richard Birch and Mark Hibbert responded to a request by Amanda Hardy of RSPB at the Royal Society of Biology Stand at the Conwy Feast.

This was the first time Ambassadors had attended, and from Amanda’s grateful comments on their wonderful support, it won’t be the last!

“It was a lovely weekend with some great STEM Ambassadors helping me to speak with lots of people.
Over the two days we were there we explained to festival visitors how lifestyle choices can cause epigenetic changes which affect how our bodies work, how our internal organs fit in our bodies (with help from a life-sized plastic torso with removable lungs, heart, stomach, liver, kidney and intestines) and also showed visitors a selection of fossils, some from Wales and some from East Kent.
 
We spoke with 563 people at the RSB stand, it was good to meet so many people interested in biology and wanting to learn more about the topics featured. It was also nice for me to see an Alpaca; just one of a number of livestock in the farming zone outside the hall and to visit the Quayside at Conwy.”
 
Amanda Hardy RSPB
 

Swansea Science Festival 
 


STEM Ambassadors (from right) Charlie Earle, Dr Mike Warwick; Abbie Ashton, Martin Thompson and K9, and Dr Mike Warwick


Swansea Science Festival
brings in the Crowds

Held at the Waterfront Museum over the weekend of 3 – 4 November Wales’ largest Science Festival brings in over 2000 family visitors. During the week, a record number of 9000 people visit the University events.
But far more important is the quality of engagement on offer and especially for us by some amazing STEM Ambassador activities.

Regular features are all manned by STEM Ambassadors including: The IOP Dark Experience Tent with STEM Ambassador Abbie Ashton, DVLA Coding tables, Love a Maggot with Dr Yamni Nigram, Cardiff School of Chemistry, Swansea Department of Respiratory Physiology; Dr Claire Price Swansea University, Saraj Jane Potts and Tom Dunlop Department of Engineering, the Energy Safety Research Institute team Swansea University and Martin Thompson with Diamond Dust Robot Katt and K9!

Some choice comments are evidence of impact:

‘Just spent the afternoon at the @SwanseaUni #SwanseaSciFest with my 6yo. She loved it! It’s clear a lot of effort has been put in by very many volunteers. All enthusiastic STEM communicators who deserve the biggest applause. I’ve heard nothing but +ve feedback.’

‘Huge thanks to everyone who attended #SwanseaSciFest this week. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did! We'll see you again next year!’

 
A Pembrokeshire network evening with STEM Ambassadors and Teachers


Pembrokeshire College kindly offered their venue for a network evening with teachers. The evening was very important to the Hub offer, we are keen to raise new requests In the County and ensure that STEM Ambassadors in the area have a strong profile.
Lately Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum hosted an induction where Bombora Wave, The Field Studies Council and Coastal Forum welcomed new recruits.

The evening network on the 5th December welcomed teachers from Ysgol Dewi Sant, Henry Tudor School, Milford Haven School together with 14 STEM Ambassadors.

Ambassador Peter Philips delivered a short session on how he presents his career in the Oil Industry to Secondary Pupils, teacher Edward Male (Henry Tudor School) demonstrated practical activities which he uses at his STEM Clubs. The session focussed on a discussion of local employment skills, specific needs in the area and how to access ideas for engagement and resources.
 
 

STEM Ambassador Opportunities


Please contact me to offer support for these requests. You may search requests by signing into your STEM Ambassador profile  here
 

All Wales
 

Big Bang event March 2019

There are great volunteering opportunities at The Big Bang Fair for anyone working in or studying STEM - please see all the details below and help us inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers!
The Big Bang Fair is the largest free annual celebration of STEM for young people in the UK; and next year it takes place from 13-16 March at the NEC in Birmingham.
The Fair is run by EngineeringUK, a not-for-profit organisation working in partnership with the engineering community to inspire tomorrow's engineers and increase the talent pipeline into engineering. The Fair aims to show young people (primarily aged 7-19) how many exciting and rewarding opportunities there are out there for them with the right experience and qualifications.
We need 100 volunteers each day to support us in the smooth running of The Fair and to ensure that our young visitors have an inspiring experience. Volunteering opportunities across 1 to 4 days range from leading volunteer teams and delivering hands-on activities, to sharing careers inspiration and judging student projects.
Volunteering at The Big Bang Fair 2019 - general information
Read about the roles you can apply for 
Follow our How to apply guide 




Greenpower Goblins need your help!

STEM Ambassadors from any part of Wales are eagerly sought by Primary Schools to assist with next years’ projects.

Pupils will be working in teams to build and race electric kit cars: https://www.greenpower.co.uk/volunteering

If you can offer a role as a mentor please get in touch. Ciara Doyle Wales Regional Officer for the Greenpower Trust would love to hear from you

Gloucester Employability Mentors

The GFirst LEP Education team in Gloucestershire currently seek highly motivated and enthusiastic business volunteers to help us to deliver our mentoring programme in secondary schools across the county.
 Working with young people aged between 14-16 years on a one to one basis, our mentors engage with them to help to develop confidence, employability skills, and also to help them to explore their future educational and career choices. Mentoring has been shown to positively improve a young person’s long term employment prospects and to help them to achieve critical successes in their GCSE’s and higher qualifications undertaken later in their academic career.
All prospective mentors receive mentoring training before they are matched to individual mentees in the schools that we work with.
If you feel you could volunteer your time to help inspire and nurture a young person as they take their initial steps into employment please contact Duncan Willoughby, Enterprise Coordinator at duncan.willoughby@gfirstlep.com or call 07803 411508.

 

CARDIFF and Vale postcodes
 
 

Bright Futures Days 22 -25 January (day of choice)
Gabalfa Primary School
Colwill Road,
Cardiff,
CF14 2QQ 

  • Teacher Liz Prescott is holding ‘Bright Futures days’ at the Primary School
  • They would love a STEM ambassador to visit during those few days and provide either a 30 minute Q and A session or an hour's workshop/ presentation
  • The aim is to educate Year 4 - 6 pupils about the employment opportunities that will be available to them, inspire them to have ambition and educate them about the basic skills needed to get and retain a job.
 

Cardiff Centre for the Deaf: STEM sessions of choice
163 Newport Rd,
Cardiff
CF24 1AG

Event coordinator Tracey Bancroft is keen to offer their visiting pupils stimulating STEM sessions
2 requests are made:
 

  1. A Saturday activity for Primary Pupils 12pm – 2pm. Last Saturday each month with parents in support ~ 20 pupils
  2. A Thursday evening activity 6pm – 8pm. 11yrs – 21 yrs pupils


A professional ‘interpreter’ will be present to sign to the pupils when the STEM Ambassador is visiting
Pupils visit from across the whole South Wales region, they are enthusiastic pupils that often need extra support while at school.
 
 

Rhiwbina Colony Beaver Science Badge sessions
Wednesday of choice 6.30 – 7.30pm January or February 2019
Heol Wern Road
Rhiwbina
CF14 6EA
 

  • Scout leader Stephen James is seeking Ambassadors to offer sessions for the Beaver and Scouts Science Badges
  • The sessions can be on any topic and the badge will be tailored to the sessions
  • 24 Beavers attend ranging from  6 – 8 yrs
 

Encouraging uptake at A level: STEM inspiration for girls
Stanwell School
Penarth
CF64 2XL

  • Paul Doyle is the physics teacher in Stanwell school.
  • He is seeking female Ambassadors to speak about women working in STEM careers Paul has very able female students in a range of year groups and was hoping to encourage the uptake of physics and science in general at a level and beyond.
  • Paul can negotiate dates for visits
 

Assembly Talks Cardiff Schools – Flexible dates January / February
Ysgol Bro Edern

Llanedeyrn Rd
Cardiff CF23 9DT

Cantonian High
Fairwater Rd,
Cardiff
CF5 3JR

  • The schools are seeking STEM Ambassadors for 30 minute assembly talks 8.30am – 9am
  • Pupils will be Yr 9 – 11 depending on day of choice
Topics needed are:
Bro Edern
  • Health and Medical
  • Leisure, Sports and Tourism
  • Animal Care
  • Art and Design
  • Law
  • Computers, Software and IT
 
 Cantonian
  •  Engineering
  • Art and Design
  • Building and Construction
  • Leisure, Sports and Tourism
  • Computers, Software and IT
  • Health and Medical

Cardiff: Sustainable Earth and Recycling
Severn Primary School
Canton
CF11 9DZ

  • Teacher Sam Slater is seeking a STEM Ambassador for a session on Recycling and Reducing Global Footprint
  • Pupils are yr 4 (7yrs old)
  • Any date in the Autumn term can be arranged

Astrophysicist Talk Flexible dates

Kings Monkton School
6 West Grove, 
Cardiff
CF24 3XL
 

  • Pupils KS4 & 5 (GCSE / A level)
  • Teacher Jayne Morgan is very keen to host an Astrophysicist Ambassador for a talk with her 15 - 17 yr old pupils.
  • Several are keen to follow Astrophysics as a career

Barry: STEM week at Cadoxton Primary

11 – 15 March
Victoria Park Rd,
Barry
CF63 2JS
 

  • Teacher Hannah Cogbill will once again welcome STEM Ambassadors with any variety of hands – on practicals, presentations and talks
  • Any day and time is possible and all pupil age groups

Barry: Science Week at Romilly, Ysgol y Ddraig

Romilly Road
Barry
CF62 6LF
11 – 15 March

 

  • Teacher Kelly Campbell will once again welcome STEM Ambassadors with any variety of hands – on practicals, presentations and talks
  • Any day and time is possible and all pupil age groups

Cardiff: Science for Year 5

Lansdowne Primary
Canton
CF5 1JY 
 

  • Teacher Karl Redding is keen to host a STEM Ambassador session. 
  • Topics can be anything from Space - Nature - Engineering and the World around us.
  • The session / workshop can be from 1 hour to half day as suits your session

Marshfied Girl Guide session – any Monday 7.30 – 8.30pm
Marshfield Village Hall
3 Wellfield Road
Cardiff
CF3 2UD
 

  • Guide Leader Shona is seeking STEM Ambassador visits for the Autumn term
  • They are keen to have a sessions related to genetics
  • An interactive or practical element is welcomed
  • 22 guides attend each week ages 11 – 14

Urdd Science Pavilion Exhibition 27 May – 1 June
Cardiff Bay
CF10 5AL
 

 
  • The GwyddonLe (The Science Place) is a pavilion located on the Eisteddfod maes which provides children and young adults the opportunity to interact with Science, Engineering, Technological, Digital and Environmental subjects. The GwyddonLe attracted over 4,500 visitors during the 2019 Eisteddfod week.   
 
  • My contact Steffan Prys will appreciate your consideration of a stall / exhibition at the Eisteddfod which this year will be held in Cardiff Bay.


The GwyddonLe’s main partner and sponsor is Swansea University and with their support would coordinate a full week’s activity programme during the Eisteddfod

Caerphilly: After school or lunchtime Club visit (Welsh medium).
Ysgol Gymraeg Trelyn.
NP12 3ST.

  • Liz Owen is eager to host STEM Ambassadors. KS2 pupils are covering topics on Playing with Physics (yrs 3/4) and Energy Light & Sound (yrs5/6)
  •  If you can offer a one hour session 3.30 -4.30 or a lunchtime visit
  • Any dates next term will be great.  
 

NP Postcodes 
 
 

STEM related session topics: Flexible dates Spring
Coed Eva Junior & Infant School
Teynes,
Cwmbran,
NP44 4TG 

Teacher Chloe Burdett is seeking STEM Ambassadors to bring elements of STEM to the following topics. Dates can be agreed with STEM Ambassador.
 

  • Yr2 Roald Dahl - maybe a science link with ‘marvellous medicine’ or Roald Dahl topic
  • Yr3 - Curious Celts and Rotten Romans (eg Structures / Roman Engineering)
  • Yr5 - comparing people and places (eg Habitats, Exploration)
  • Yr6 - WW2 : betchley park and coding or topic of choice
 

Meet a Scientist Day Tuesday January 15
St. Illtyd's Primary School
Abertillery
Blaenau Gwent
NP13 2JT
 

  • Teacher Ceri Evans is launching a series of inspiring Science events for her Yr 2 pupils (6 and 7 yrs old)
  • She is seeking a STEM Ambassador for a talk on their work and what life as a scientist is like
  • You are also warmly invited to attend the Science Show that the children are performing on April 3rd in Llanhilleth Community Hall
 


First Edition event Talk / Video at Clytha Primary 19 February 2019

Clytha Primary School
Bryngwyn Rd
Newport
NP20 4JT

STEM Ambassadors will be required to provide a 5-10 minute talk/presentation (photos/ videos welcome) about their STEM experience including:

  • What they do in their current role or previous role - highlighting any interesting projects they have worked on
  • Benefits of working in a STEM career - job security, well-paid, travel opportunities, helping society, solving-problems, being creative etc
  • How they became interested in their STEM area
  • Educational pathway/ Route into STEM career - GCSE’s/A-levels studied / College/ Uni course/ Apprenticeship scheme
  • Q&A session – invite students to ask any questions


Pupils are Years 3&4, and Years 5&6 – 120 pupils in total
STEM Ambassadors are welcome to stay and support for the day, but can attend for a shorter part if preferred
As well as or instead of providing a talk STEM ambassador is also welcome to support the event by assisting the student teams with the activities by encouraging them to think outside the box to solve problems, also helping with the judging of the competitions.
The event/ activities will be run by our Deliverer and will also brief the ambassador on the day.  
STEM support sessions: Heart Yr 6 ; Formula 1 Jaguar Schools Yr 3

Blackwood Primary
Blackwood
NP12 1WA
 
  • STEM Coordinator Kirsten Shuker is seeking Ambassador support for these topics
  • Year 6: Heart and functions
  • Year 3: F1 Cars Jaguar Schools project
  • Dates and number of sessions are flexible

Newport: Healthy bodies – How Does My Body Work
St Julian’s Primary
NP19 7UB

  • Teacher Louise Robinson seeks to bring a wow factor to the theme  'how does my body work?'
  • The theme includes understanding digestion, how to keep teeth healthy, identifying organs and work on healthy diets.
  • Pupils are Yr 4 (8yrs old)

Newport: Rocks and Fossils
St Julian’s Primary
NP19 7UB
 

  • Teacher Louise Robinson is looking for a stem ambassador/geologist to enhance teaching rocks and fossils
  • The science theme 'rocks and soils' coincides with teaching the students about the Romans
  • Pupils are Yr 3 (6 yrs old)

Newport: STEM Visits Crindau Primary School
Crindau Primary

NP20 5ND
 

  • Teacher Medi James and colleagues were delighted with the Summer Term STEM Ambassador visits
  • The school would love to host STEM Ambassadors in the Spring Term
  • All topics are welcome and the dates can be arranged to suit your schedule

Rhymney: Habitats for KS1
Idris Davies School
Abertysswg,
NP22 5XF
 

  • Teacher Danielle Self is seeking STEM Ambassadors who could offer a session on Habitats (plant or animal) for KS 1 pupils.
  • Pupils are 4yrs – 6yrs old
  • Any dates this term

Caldicot: STEM workshops
Ysgol Y Ffin
Caldicot
NP26 4NQ: 
 

  • STEM Ambassadors are always welcome to offer visits / after school Club sessions at the school
  • This is a Welsh Medium School where Welsh is preferred for KS1 but English or Welsh welcome for KS2
  • The school will also be hosting a family Saturday event – details to follow – STEM Ambassadors welcomed

Blackwood: Technology / Film / Gaming
Pontllanffraith Primary
NP12 2DN

  • Teacher Carys Price is seeking a STEM Ambassador for one session or a series of sessions (your choice)
  • Her Yr 5 and 6 pupils are working on a project and would like to make a short film or video clip.
  • If you can offer practical advice or a short session they would be delighted!

Caerphilly: After school or lunchtime Club visit (Welsh medium).
Ysgol Gymraeg Trelyn.
NP12 3ST.

  • Liz Owen is eager to host STEM Ambassadors. KS2 pupils are covering topics on Playing with Physics (yrs 3/4) and Energy Light & Sound (yrs5/6)
  •  If you can offer a one hour session 3.30 -4.30 or a lunchtime visit
  • Any dates next term will be great.  
 

Bridgend County; Rhondda Cynon Taf; Merthyr Tydfil

Brynteg Comprehensive Careers Festival Thursday 31 January 9am – 3pm (or afternoon only)
Brynteg School
Bridgend
CF31 3ER
 

  • Teacher Michelle Davies warmly invites local STEM Ambassadors to attend this event with a stand or table top display
  • Pupils from the whole school will attend
  • The Festival runs from 9am – 3pm but you are welcome to attend just for the afternoon
  • The aim of the event is a showcase of local employment and a chance to meet STEM Ambassadors to discuss their career paths

Frozen Kingdom session

Maes Yr Haul Primary
Gentle Way
Bridgend
CF31 5EG

 

  • Teacher Helena St Amand is seeking STEM Ambassadors for a support / session on a topic related to Frozen Kingdom
  • Yr 5 & 6 will be studying the topic in January
  • Ideas can be: Antarctica, Environment and adaptation, exploration

Science Week March 8 – 17 2019

Maes Yr Haul Primary
Gentle Way
Bridgend
CF31 5EG
 

    • Teacher Helena St Amand wuld value the input of STEM Ambassadors in Science Week
    • They want t follow other schools in the area by hosting a diverse range of STEM sessions
    • Any day f the week can be offered and any pupil age suitable for your session

Hawthorn High Pupil STEM Ambassador Q&A for project

Hawthorn High
Pontypridd
CF37 5AL
 

  • Teacher Kayleigh Evans has a Year 13 pupil researching a project on Food and Agriculture ‘To What Extent is Cellular Agriculture a Viable Source of Food for the Future’
  • Pupil Harry would be grateful if a STEM Ambassador could answer a few questions and give him advice on the research
  • The advice could be email, a visit to the school or skype call


Merthyr Science Festival Steering committee
 

    • STEM Ambassadr Claire Price is seeking interest from local Ambassadors
    • Claire is initiating a Science Festival to be held in Merthyr probable date July 2019

Rhondda Cynon Taf:  Ecology workshop support

Yr 9 & 10 
Ysgol Rhydywaun
CF44 9ES

      • Teacher Leana Stansfield is planning to run workshops on ecology
      • These may include pond dipping, lichen survey, soil or sampling using quadrats
      • Initially Leana and her colleagues would like a discussion with STEM Ambassadors on the content of the session
      • Further assistance is optional 

Merthyr Tydfil: STEM Week
Pantysgallog Primary School
Dowlais,
CF48 2AD

  • Teacher Craig Lynch will be pleased to hear from STEM Ambassadors who can offer a session during Science Week.
  • Craig would be pleased for all offers of support - any topic would be welcome Interactive or demonstrations of particular interest

Merthyr Tydfil: Microbes and Food
Cyfarthfa Primary School
CF47 8RE
 

  • Teacher Rich Price is seeking an Ambassador to cover the topic ‘Food Glorious Food’
  • He would particularly like a session on Microbes and Bacteria
  • Any date can be selected Summer Term.

Merthyr Tydfil: Trelewis Science Week 8 - 15 March

Trelewis Primary
CF46 6AH

The school was not able to run a Science Week in March 2018, and don’t want the pupils to miss the experience this year!
 

  • Teacher Jonathan Keefe is seeking any STEM topic sessions.
  • You can offer for any age groups 5yrs - 10 yrs old, and all topics will be accepted.
  • Pupils are studying Space, Electricity, Light, Sound, Environment, Habitat,

            Human Body, Technology, Engineering topics, and many others


 Computer Science applications.

Lewis School Pengam
Bargoed
CF81 8LJ.
 

  • Teacher David Eyles is very keen to host STEM Ambassadors to raise the profile on Computer Science. He is flexible on dates.
  • A large number of pupils are keen on gaming, programming and general application in careers.

SA Postcodes 

Spring into STEM days Margam Country Park

Sunday 10 March – Public Day
Monday 11 March – Schools Day

Margam Country Park
Neath Port Talbot Borough
Margam
SA13 2TJ

  • To celebrate National Science Week this beautiful Country Park is holding 2 STEM days

  • They welcome STEM Ambassadors who can offer a STEM based activity or workshop on either day

  • School day will be for KS2 / KS3 pupils

  • All STEM areas will be welcome.

  • The theme for National Science Week is ‘Journeys’ including an exploration of  Nature, Time, Space, Human Body, Technology etc.

Dinosaur Day Sunday 28 July

Margam Country Park
Neath Port Talbot Borough
Margam
SA13 2TJ
 

  • This beautiful Country Park is holding a Dinosaur Day where animated replicas of Dinosaurs will be visiting the Park
  • They would love to include an educational element and welcome STEM Ambassadors who have background in evolution, palaeontology and similar relevant areas
  • The Castle will be available and Outdoor marquees for stands, workshops and similar activities
  • I will place you in contact with Alison Lloyd Commercial Officer

CREST Discovery Day team support 20 February

Forensic science, medieval science and science in food
Dwyr y Felin School 
Neath
SA10 7RE
 

  • Teacher Andy Rayson is holding a ‘Discovery Day’ for Yr 7 pupils
  • He is seeking STEM Ambassadors to support the themes with advice, motivating the teams and general leadership
  • The themes are forensic science, medieval science and science in food
  • Each team will work on 1 theme for the day
  • Pupils will receive CREST Awards on completing the challenge
  • STEM Ambassadors do not have to have specific skills in these areas – the aim to motivate and assist problem solving

Climate Change: Schools Project Collaboration with Swansea University STEM Ambassadors

Dr Jennifer Rudd is seeking contact with STEM Ambassadors who have developed / delivered Climate Change sessions at schools.

Jennifer and her colleagues are developing a workshop and resources which they aim to offer Secondary Schools across Wales and would greatly value discussions with experienced STEM Ambassadors.

If you would like to offer advice, make contact or send a message to Jennifer please let me know.

Pupil Referral Unit Science and Maths experience
Step-Ahead Education Centre
Gors Avenue
Cockett
Swansea
SA1 6SF

  • Teacher Karen Trussler is keen to offer her pupils in the unit a wider experience of maths or science
  • Karen’s pupils are medium ability KS3 /4 (12 – 15 yrs old)
  • They welcome contact / visits from STEM Ambassadors either before the 21st December or after January 7th

Bones and Organs of the Body – Day of choice between 7th – 19th  January
Brynmill Primary
Swansea
SA2 0BU
 

  • Teacher Kate Jenkins is seeking STEM Ambassadors to deliver a session on the Human organs
  • Bones, blood, organ functions – any related topic or activity would be ideal
  • Activity ideas are available on the STEM Ambassador Resource Bank
  • Pupils are Yrs 3 and 4 (6 – 8yrs old)

Ysgol Bryn Tawe STEM careers programme – Spring Term
Penlan
Swansea
SA5 7BU

  • Rhiannon Williams Science Coordinator  is seeking a series of STEM Ambassador visits to Yr 9 pupils (14 yrs old)
  • The aim is to profile a diverse set of career paths in a 50 minute session.
  • Pupils will take notes during the session and collate the information in a presentation to Years 7 & 8 pupils
  • The session can be delivered to the whole year (140 pupils) or a class of 30 pupils. Each class will then have collated information on different STEM Ambassadors
  • The content could include qualifications, career pathways, what the job entails, best things, worst things about the jobs etc.
  • If you can assist I shall send you a timetable of dates and times available

A level talk or workshop for students any Tuesday or Friday

Neath - Port Talbot College
Dwyr Y Felin
Neath
SA10 7RF

  • Tutor Sam Oxley is seeking a stimulating session on applications of STEM qualifications for gifted and talented A level pupils
  • All study A level Chemistry
  • The session can be any application of science / engineering
  • Tutorials are held Tuesdays (11.30-12.30) and Fridays (11.30-12.30)

BTEC Applied Science Lab session
Ysgol Ystalyfera
Ystalyfera
Swansea
SA9 2JJ

Teacher Bethan Murphy is seeking a presentation or short demonstration on Laboratory Information Systems Students are BTEC level 3.
The module requires students to

  • Describe the procedure for storing information in a laboratory information management system
  • Explain the processes involved in storing information in a scientific workplace
  • Discuss the advantages gained by keeping data and records on a laboratory management information system

Gower: STEM Club visit any Wednesday

Pennard Primary
Gower
SA3 2AD
 

  • Calling all STEM Ambassadors
  • Pennard Primary are eager to host STEM Ambassadors at the lunchtime Club
  • Years 3 – 6 attend (6-10 years old)
  • Demonstrations or hands on activities very welcome

Mock Interviews: Various Gower College and Bishopston

The aim of the Interview is to provide young people with the opportunity to explore and practice the skills, attitudes, values and qualities needed for life and work through a mock interview session. 

 

  • 4 March 2019 Gower College (Ty Coch campus) 9.30am – 12pm

 
  • 13 14 or 15 March Bishopston School 8.45am – 3pm (any time you can spare in these hours)

LL Postcodes

Community Science Projects running March – July (flexible support dates)

Ebeneser Community Centre
Llangefni
LL77 7PN

Local community group leaders are involved in a pilot project with the British Science Association
They will be holding a series of projects in the year to reach groups of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds; less abled or disabled citizens and less fortunate communities
Of great importance is to seek the advice, support of their local STEM Ambassadors.
They intend to run projects including the following topics:

  • Coastal Science
  • Engineering (Civil) with a focus on Menai Bridge eg constructing suspension bridge models
  • Aviation or Weather Systems
  • Energy


Projects will be showcased at a special event in Llangefni, my contact will be Carl Gillam project lead.

Roller Coaster build support January (dates of choice)
Ysgol Bryn Clwyd
Llandyrnog
Denbighshire 
Ll16 4EY
 

  • Teacher Vicky Lyon is setting up a Lego Roller Coaster Build for yrs 5 & 6
  • Pupils will be working on the Roller Coaster during the first 3 weeks of January
  • They would love some extra guidance from a STEM Ambassador
  • You may offer any dates and what time you can spare

Myddleton College STEMB Week
10 March 
Peakes Lane,
Denbigh,
LL16 3EN 

  • Teacher Paul Greene has a new faculty in the school he is seeking STEM ambassadors to provide workshops/events or judge competitions.
  • Any and all types of STEM Ambassadors would be welcome.
  • We are looking for pupils to take part in a STEMB Fair, and then enrichment activities too, some displays would be great too.

Bangor University Ocean Science Careers Fair
1pm – 3.30pm Wednesday 13 March 2019
Menai Bridge
LL59 5AB
 

  • Katrien Van Landegham invites STEM Ambassadors to exhibit / attend the Careers event
  • If you would like to have a presence I will forward your interest
  • Exhibitors will be provided with lunch
  • Students are studying Biology, Marine Science and Geology

Conwy Code Clubs support
Conwy County Borough Council
Conwy
LL32 8AY

    • Cmmunity Development officer Tom Jones is organising Code Clubs across the County Primary Schools.
    • Teachers will be given initial training in Nvember.
    • Tm would be grateful for STEM Ambassador support for these Clubs

North East Wales Schools Mock interviews

The aim of these workshops is to provide young people with the opportunity to explore and practice the skills, attitudes, values and qualities needed for life and work through a mock interview session. 
6 x 30 minute interviews are planned for each volunteer.
 

  • 17 January St Joseph’s High Wrexham LL13 7EN Year 11 pupils Morning only

  • 25 January Ysgol Rhosnesni LL13 9ET Year 11 pupils Morning only

  • 22 February The Maelor Wrexham LL13 0LU Year 11 pupils Morning only

  • 22 March Ysgol Bryn Alyn Wrexham LL11 4HB Year 11 pupils Morning only

  • 11 April Darland High School Rosett LL12 0DL Year 10 pupils Morning only

Please offer support for the date of your choice.

Numeracy at Work Ysgol Bryn Alyn 6 March

Ysgol Bryn Alyn Wrexham LL11 4HB Year 7 pupils 9am – 12pm

These are employer led workshops representing different sectors.
6 x 40 minute workshop are required talking to groups of approximately 20-25 pupils.
The workshop / talk focuses on careers and opportunities within their sector and the importance of maths.
 This is a valuable opportunity for Years 8 or 9 pupils to understand the importance of maths and start to develop the skills and attitudes necessary for the world of work. 


Careers Fair 6 February 2019
Glyndwr University Sports Hall
LL11 2AW
The aim of the event is to increase and enhance pupil awareness of the different opportunities and vocational career routes available to them.   The format is informal where volunteer ambassadors from different sectors talk young people giving them an insight into their careers and life journeys
Year 10 – Year 13 pupils (GCSE / A level) various local schools
 

World of Work employer carousel 12 February 

Ysgol Bryn Alyn
Wrexham
LL11 4HB

6 x 45 minute workshops run by employers for young people in schools. 
They are an important way to facilitate students’ learning about the world of work.  A feature of a World of Work event is that employers are involved as adults other than teachers presenting case studies based on their own experience
 

Stockbroker Challenge 24 and 25 June  9.00am – 1.30pm

Darland High School
Rosett
LL12 0DL

6 Ambassadors with some experience of industry / business are invited to support the stockbroker challenge.
Year 8 & 9 pupils will be presenting projects and taking part in a team challenge
 

Bangor: STEM Club at St Gerards Primary any Monday 3pm – 4pm

St Gerards Primary
Bangor
LL57 2EL
 

  • Teacher Tamzin Pritchard is seeking STEM Ambassadors to visit the pupils at their STEM Club
  • Tamzin has been delighted with the impact of previous STEM Ambassador visits
  • Any STEM session will be delightfully received!

Holywell STEM sessions - all dates available this term

Ysgol Maes Y Felin
Flintshire
CH8 7EN

  • Teacher Tamsin is seeking sessions for Foundation, Yr 1 / Yr 2 pupils
  • Next term they are inspiring pupils with 'Reach for the Stars' which is to raise aspirations and goals
  • All STEM topics would be welcome and some interactive elements will be important

Llandudno Code Club Support (or STEM session in general)
Ysgol Bodafon

LL30 3BA
 

  • The school are seeking a Code Club supporter or a session on STEM in general.
  • If you can help I shall place you in contact with Adam Davies wales@codeclub.org.uk

SY and LD postcodes
 

Science Week at Broneirion House 11 – 14 March (day of choice)

Girl and Scouts Guiding Cymru,
Broneirion,
Llandinam,
SY17 5DE 

  • Guide leader Jo Woodall held a very successful Science week in 2018  with the support of STEM Ambassadors and would like to repeat the experience.
  • Any day during the week can be arranged. Any STEM activity / session would be fantastic.
  • The ambassador would need to run a session for 50 minutes, and then repeat the activity 5 times throughout the day so that all of the children experience it.
  • Broneirion is based in Powys, Mid Wales and can offer B&B to any ambassadors who may have to travel further afield.
  • STEM Ambassadors may attend for once day or more according to choice, as different primary schools and guides attend each day.
  • The event is open to male and female Ambassadors

STEM sessions for More Able and Talented  pupils

St Mary’s Catholic Primary
3 The Orchard,
Milford Rd,
Newtown
SY16 2DA
 

  • Teacher Sarah Ruggeri is seeking STEM sessions of all kinds focussing on any topic
  • Pupils are ages 5yrs – 11yrs, any year group of your choice
  • This is a small school initiating a strong STEM focus

2019 Ceredigion Careers Festival Tuesday 19th February 2019

Aberystwyth Arts Centre
Aberystwyth University
Penglais Campus
Aberystwyth
SY23 3DE
 

  • Careers Wales in partnership with Aberystwyth University and Aberystwyth Arts Centre are seeking STEM Ambassador exhibitors for the event
 
  • The event will be open from 9am until 4pm.
 
  • 1000 Pupils from Years 9 to 13 in Ceredigion will attend.
  • This year parents will also be invited at lunchtime.
 
  • The aim of the event is to provide pupils, teachers and parents with an interactive insight into the vast range of career opportunities available, as well as raising their awareness of the different pathways that can be taken after school.
 
  • There is no cost to you to attend, except your valuable time and expertise, which the organisers place at premium value.

 
Please respond to Rebecca Flanagan if you are interested. Further details will be provided.

Brecon Primary science sessions. Dates flexible.
 
Llangors Primary

LD3 7UB. 

Teacher Meg is eager to host STEM Ambassadors for STEM topics in Spring Term
 

Crickhowell : STEM sessions

Llangynidr Primary School
NP8 1LU.
 

  • Teacher Claire Watson is seeking an Ambassador to present workshop or talk on any STEM topic.
  • Interactive interesting topics welcome

NEW  – GL postcodes
 


We have been contacted by Gloucester Gfirst LEP to support neighbouring schools in Gloucester. If you can support any request please copy me into a message to Duncan Willoughby
 


Schools activities: Mock Interviews

Mock Interviews run from 8.30am -1.30pm
                                               
           
14th January 2019         Year 11 The Crypt School, Gloucester
22 January                    Year 11 Wyedean School Sedbury nr Chepstow
23 January                    Year 10 Wyedean School Sedbury nr Chepstow             
5th February 2019          The Cotswold School, Bourton-on-the-water
6th February 2019          The Cotswold School, Bourton-on-the-water
4th March 2019              Chipping Campden School                   
5th March 2019              Chipping Campden School                     
5th June 2019                Archway School, Stroud                                   
6th June 2019                Archway School, Stroud                                   
12th June 2019             Churchdown School, Gloucester                       
13th June 2019               Churchdown School, Gloucester                      
20th June 2019             Maidenhill School, Stonehouse         
    
Young Entrepreneurs Panel Judge

25 January                    Year 9 Young Entrepreneurs Wycliffe School Stonehouse
14 February                   Year 9 Young Entrepreneurs Sir Thomas Rich School Gloucester
15th February                The Crypt School, Gloucester 8.30am-1.30pm                
8th March                       Archway School, Stroud 8.00am-3.00pm