Park Academy Inspires the Next Generation Through STEM Outreach

Park Community School, a coeducational secondary school in Havant, Hampshire, enthusiastically brought STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) to life for its students as part of Engineering UK's Big Bang at Schools programme.

The school is committed to inspiring young people through high-quality STEM education, providing students with opportunities to explore science, engineering and technology both in the classroom and through a wide range of enrichment activities.

As part of its ongoing STEM outreach programme, Park Academy welcomed around 200 primary school pupils on 30 June for an exciting day of hands-on science and engineering activities. Students took on an engineering design challenge, explored the school's science laboratories and learned about laboratory safety, while gaining an insight into how science is taught and applied across the curriculum.

The STEM programme continued on 3 July with a further 60 Year 5 and Year 6 pupils taking part in an interactive science show. Alongside exciting demonstrations, students were introduced to careers in science and the opportunities available through STEM study at Key Stages 3, 4 and 5.

Throughout both events, Park Academy's STEM Ambassadors played a key role in supporting activities and speaking with younger pupils about STEM opportunities within the school. They also encouraged participation in extracurricular activities, with a particular focus on inspiring more girls to engage with STEM subjects.

In total, around 260 primary school pupils benefited from the two outreach events, helping to build confidence, spark curiosity and demonstrate the exciting possibilities that studying STEM can offer.

Ms Gregory, Science & STAR Teacher, said: "Our target is within our community, encouraging uptake of science at further and higher education. So far we have been incredibly successful, with one of our alumni now studying for a PhD in Chemistry. We have achieved this through our STEM Ambassador programme, having a vibrant science club and a strong science presence within the school and the community."

The events formed part of Park Academy's ongoing commitment to collaborating with local schools and inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators, while demonstrating the positive impact of STEM education within the wider community.

*Images courtesy of Park Community School