Go to Canterbury Christ CHurch University's website
Go to Canterbury Christ CHurch University's website
June 20 2025 | Kent & Medway | Views: 94
Northfleet School for Girls, located in Northfleet near Gravesend in Kent, is a forward-thinking secondary school committed to empowering young women through high-quality education and enriching experiences. With a strong focus on academic achievement, personal development, and STEM engagement, the school encourages curiosity, confidence and ambition in every student.
The school was thrilled to be supported by The STEM Hub as part of Engineering UK’s Big Bang at Schools programme, aimed at young people aged 11–14. On 20 June, around 220 Year 8 students participated in an inspiring educational experience delivered by Starlight STEM Limited. Across seven 30-minute sessions held in a pop-up planetarium, students were taken on a virtual journey through space.
The students explored a wide range of fascinating space science topics in an engaging and immersive environment. They learned about the importance of constellations across different cultures, the International Space Station, the size of the Moon relative to the Earth, and the nature and composition of the Sun. The sessions also covered the unique characteristics of each planet in the Solar System and highlighted the influential contributions of Caroline Herschel to the field of astronomy. The experience extended into the broader cosmos, introducing students to the shape and structure of the Milky Way, the Earth's position within it, and the vast architecture of the Universe.
The event provided an engaging and memorable opportunity to deepen students’ understanding of space science. Here’s what some of them had to say about their experience:
“The Planetarium was very interesting because we got to see all of the planets and in 360. It educated me more about space and the universe. It allowed us to learn more about space and to see it.” Macey
“I enjoyed it because it was a fun yet relaxing way to educate us about the world and it’s backstory. It portrayed a good vision of how the world was and what space looks like. I liked the fact that it helped us understand space in more detail and the message was delivered in an exciting way - please come back!” Faith
“The planetarium that came to our school was super cool and awesome! I loved how the stars and planets looked like they were right above us — it felt like I was in space! I wish it could come every week because it was the best thing ever!” Chloe
Images supplied by Northfleet School for Girls
