STEM Week at Durston House School was a resounding success, packed with exciting activities that engaged students from all year groups. The week-long celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) was designed to inspire a love for these subjects, foster curiosity, and develop problem-solving skills among students. From mesmerizing chemical reactions to hands-on workshops and creative projects, STEM Week had something for everyone.
Whole School Assembly: The Magic of Elephant Toothpaste
The festivities kicked off with a whole school assembly featuring a spectacular demonstration of the Elephant Toothpaste experiment. This fascinating chemical reaction, involving hydrogen peroxide, yeast, and dish soap, created a voluminous foam eruption that delighted children and staff alike. The demonstration not only showcased the excitement of chemistry but also highlighted the importance of scientific inquiry and experimentation.
Inspiring Talks: Mr. Hammond, British Airways Pilot
STEM Week continued with inspiring talks from parent speakers, including Mr. Hammond, a pilot for British Airways. Mr. Hammond shared his experiences and insights into the world of aviation, captivating the students with stories of flying high and the science behind it. His talk emphasised the importance of STEM subjects in pursuing a career in aviation and inspired many young minds to dream big.
Microbit Workshop: Coding and Creativity for Year 5 and Year 6
Year 5 and Year 6 pupils had the opportunity to delve into the world of coding with a hands-on Microbit workshop. These tiny programmable devices opened up a world of possibilities, allowing students to create simple games, animations, and even control robots. The workshop was a perfect blend of creativity and technology, demonstrating how coding can be both fun and educational.
Year 8 Mentoring: Assisting Pre-Prep with Science Activities
Year 8 pupils took on a mentoring role, assisting the younger pre-prep pupils with various science activities. This included making slime and conducting a skittles chromatography workshop. The slime-making activity was a hit, teaching the basics of polymer chemistry in an engaging and tactile way. The skittles chromatography workshop introduced the concept of separation techniques and the science of colors, capturing the imaginations of the youngest scientists.
Maths Morning: Cross Curriculum Learning
Pupils enjoyed a special Maths Morning, filled with interactive and educational activities. Pre-Prep children learned about measurement by making delicious milkshakes, carefully measuring ingredients to ensure the perfect blend. Pupils in Middle & Upper School built towers out of spaghetti and marshmallows tested their engineering skills and understanding of structures. Creating houses from lollipop sticks and glue sparked their creativity and taught the basics of construction. These hands-on activities made math tangible and fun, reinforcing key concepts through play. Year 8 pupils showcased their entrepreneurial spirit by creating detailed business plans. This project integrated mathematics with real-world applications, challenging pupils to think critically and strategically. They learned about budgeting, marketing, and financial planning, gaining valuable skills that will serve them well in the future. This activity demonstrated the practical importance of math in everyday life and future careers.
A Week to Remember
STEM Week at Durston House School was an unforgettable experience for all involved. The variety of activities ensured that every student could find something that sparked their interest and curiosity. From the explosive fun of Elephant Toothpaste to the intricate coding with Microbits, and the creative chaos of spaghetti towers, STEM Week was a celebration of learning, discovery, and innovation.
Durston House School remains committed to providing high-quality STEM education, preparing pupils for a future where these skills will be more important than ever. STEM Week was a testament to this commitment, showing that learning can be both fun and deeply enriching. We look forward to next year’s STEM Week and the many exciting adventures it will bring.
Miss Togher – Marketing Manager
