It is full steam ahead for specialist learning events at Newington Community Primary School in Ramsgate.
The latest was a week-long project-based cycle of research, design and creativity into STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths.
Children from Nursery to Year 6 applied their knowledge and skills using the five subjects in a number of challenges.
The STEAM Week aim was to promote abstract thinking, communication skills, and resilience through testing and modifying.
The overall theme was learning inspired around traditional stories and tales.
The Reception group made and baked gingerbread men, Year 1 built a stronger bridge for the Three Billy Goats Gruff, Year 2 created their own parachutes to safely transport a golden egg from the giant’s lair to earth in Jack and the Beanstalk.
Year 3 constructed a tower to help Rapunzel escape from her prison; the task for Year 4 was to create a boat or craft from clay that floated to transport the gingerbread men; Year 5 built rockets, balloons and airships to help the tortoise overtake the hare in their race; and Year 6 made wearable shoes and slippers based on the Elves and the Shoemaker.
Parents were invited in to school to lend a hand and see how the children’s creations were unfolding, and the grand finale of the week was a STEAM Fair in the main hall when children representing each year group demonstrated their projects and explained their challenges.
Head Teacher Cliff Stokes said: “STEAM is an essential part of our broad and balanced curriculum.
“It encourages taking thoughtful risks and critical thinking. The whole idea of a focused week is to encourage pupils to use and expand their knowledge and skill sets through problem-solving.
“The staff behind STEAM Week worked hard to create and oversee a series of thought-provoking challenges that reinforced existing learning through creative cross-curricular activities.
“Children around the school were buzzing with excitement as their projects progressed through a week of inspirational learning that encouraged their aspirations to design, make and test the best project they could.”