STEAM Fortnight

Presdales School recently hosted a vibrant and educational STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Fortnight, offering students across different year groups the opportunity to engage with professionals from a range of industries. The event, aimed at inspiring and educating young minds, featured a series of talks and workshops by experts in their respective fields, including engineers, scientists, and industry leaders. The initiative allowed students to explore potential career paths and understand the various routes available into the diverse STEAM sectors.

One of the key highlights of the fortnight was the visit of Tony Willis and Emily Streets, representatives from VPI, who run the Rye House Power Station. They visited Year 7 students to explain the inner workings of the power station and the role of engineers in maintaining energy production. The talk provided an opportunity for students to ask questions and learn about the vital role power stations play in providing sustainable energy, sparking an interest in renewable energy sources and engineering careers.

Sam Johnson, Erin Meredith, and Millie Sandwell from GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) also participated in the STEAM Fortnight, presenting to students across all year groups about careers in the pharmaceutical industry. They discussed various roles within GSK, highlighting the different paths into science and engineering professions.

A particularly inspiring session was led by Marsha Jenkins, a Lead Clinical Scientist at the Paediatric Hearing Implant Centre at St Thomas’ Hospital in London. She shared her career journey and insights into the field of paediatric audiology. Her presentation focused on the importance of hearing implants for young children and the innovative work done at St Thomas’ Hospital. Marsha explained the routes into audiology, including the combination of medical knowledge and technical skills required in this field, leaving students fascinated by the intersection of healthcare and engineering.

Year 11 students had the privilege of hearing from Dr Emma Curtis-Lake, an expert in astronomy, who spoke about her research and work in space exploration. Dr Curtis-Lake’s talk captivated students with her enthusiasm for the subject and provided a glimpse into the exciting world of space science. She outlined the different career opportunities in astronomy and related fields, encouraging students to consider how their academic interests could translate into a career in scientific research and exploration.

Year 9 students had the opportunity to hear from Sian Butcher and George Putham, who shared Tesla’s mission to revolutionize the transportation industry and make technology more sustainable. The discussion covered Tesla’s work in electric vehicles and clean energy technologies, highlighting the company’s role in combating climate change. This session inspired students to think about how innovation in technology can lead to a more sustainable future, encouraging them to consider careers in sustainable engineering and environmental technology.

Year 10 students engaged with Dr Will Drury, a leading engineer at the University of Strathclyde, who explored the diverse world of engineering and the many different routes into this field. Dr Drury’s talk highlighted the range of opportunities available in engineering, from civil and mechanical to electrical and chemical engineering. His passion for the subject was evident as he described the exciting projects engineers work on, such as designing sustainable infrastructure and tackling global challenges.

Finally, MBDA Apprentices visited Year 8 students to discuss the variety of apprenticeship opportunities available within the aerospace and defence sectors. They explained how apprenticeships provide practical experience and valuable skills, allowing students to earn while they learn and kick-start their careers in high-tech industries. This session provided an excellent introduction to the concept of apprenticeships as a viable alternative to traditional university education.

Year 9 Design & Technology Careers Morning

The STEAM Fortnight at Presdales School was an inspiring and informative event that offered students an invaluable insight into the many careers available within the STEAM fields. By engaging with experts and learning about real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, students were motivated to explore their passions and consider the numerous paths available to them in the future.