STEM Pathway lead:
Mr Fletcher
STEM Pathway
The STEM pathway prepares students for 21st century careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.
Aspiring scientists, mathematicians and engineers are provided with content, skills and practical experiences.
They are given the opportunity to design and build their own project as well as gain real-life insight and experiences through guest lectures and work experience.
Students are likely to be studying at least two subjects from:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Design Technology
- Maths
- Physics
Plus 1
Students can take any of the ‘Plus 1’ options. However, they are strongly encouraged to study Core Maths if they are not taking A Level Maths.
Strand 1: Design and build.
In Stand 1, students will break into small groups to run their own design and build project. The students will be introduced to the CREST Awards, a nationally recognised STEM enrichment programme for pupils from all age groups. The Gold CREST Award is typically completed by 16 to 19 year olds, CREST Gold can be used to enhance personal statements and is well regarded by employers. Gold Awards allow students to conduct real research, contributing something new to a particular field of study.
Students complete 70+ hours of project work, which is assessed externally by a trained CREST assessor. At Gold level, students develop and lead the project, consider the broader impact of their project and demonstrate an innovative approach. Students write a project report and reflect on their work using a CREST student profile form.
Strand 2: Supervise / Mentor STEM task for partner Junior School pupils.
The second strand runs in a very similar way to the design and build strand however, the group will be acting as a mentor / guide to a group of pupils in a partner primary school who will choose, design and run their own Junior CREST project. Leading the team of the primary school students will give our students invaluable opportunities to develop their leadership and planning skills.
Strand 3: Work Experience
We will work in conjunction with each student to put together a period of work experience relevant to the area of STEM that particularly interests them. Using our links with parents, Old Waconians and local companies, students can either select from a list of potential opportunities or if possible set up their own period of work placement.
Each strand will run concurrently over an approximately 10 week period. At the end of each session the groups will then rotate onto one of the other strands. During the time the whole group will gather for potential lectures from guest speakers.
Each student will design their own bespoke programme at the beginning of the year in conjunction with the staff leading the pathway.