The contribution that STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and maths) can make to the British and world economy is widely recognised, not just in the political arena but also by industry; consequently there is a growing national recognition of the importance of recruiting more students and especially women into STEM careers.
But how do we actively engage girls in STEM subjects from an early age and – even more critically – keep them engaged as they start to contemplate careers?
Moreton Hall is investing much time and resources to ensure it is at the forefront of developing young female scientists and mathematicians. A critical element in this programme has become the annual Moreton Hall Science Festival.
Moreton’s third Science Festival once again sees the school opening its doors to a vast array of industry experts and to students from all ages and stages from schools across the community.
All will benefit from the new innovative and progressive Science Centre which was completed in 2013. The facility is enhancing the profile of Science with girls of all ages and is supporting Moreton’s aim of being one of the top schools in the study of Science in the country. This facility is also forming the hub for a ground-breaking relationship between Moreton, state schools and universities. Keele and Birmingham Universities are working alongside Moreton’s Science Team delivering practical experimentation workshops, lectures and seminars to students including those from nearby state schools; an important triangulation between independent schools, state schools and universities.
This year’s Festival is set to be yet more spectacular in depth and breadth than the previous years’ with top scientists and TV celebrity guest performers Helen Arney (* see below) opening the event on June 19th and Greg Foot (**) closing the event on June 26th. Limited tickets are available to the general public (contact kynesd@moretonhall.com).
In between, the week takes many twists and turns down varied paths of science including forensics, engineering, robotics, chemistry, sci-fi, astronomy and even an immense science challenge day for over 250 children from local schools.
“The week offers total absorption in all things scientific” explains organiser, David Kynes. “The children learn an incredible amount through a multitude of fun talks, practical experiments and trips. We include as many children as possible from other schools as well. Our continual aim at Moreton is to develop young people’s interest and confidence in many areas of science, and it seems to work!”
Now hands up who is still not interested in Science!