Year 9 pupils had the opportunity to participate in an engaging and educational STEM workshop, designed to foster creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
The day included designing a model, building a prototype, and producing a final product. In the morning session, students learned about the engineering process and the essential qualities of a successful engineer, such as teamwork and effective communication. Working in teams of five or six, each member assumed a specific role, such as an electrical engineer responsible for wiring the boat or an advertiser in charge of branding and creating promotional materials. Using foam, hot glue, cutting knives, and, for the first time, hot wire cutters, teams built prototypes of moving model boats.
In the afternoon, pupils used additional materials like wood, cardboard, and lollypop sticks to construct their final boats, adapting their designs as foam was no longer available. The boats were then tested in paddling pools set up in the school quad, and teams presented their branding concepts to their peers.
“The workshop was a hands-on learning experience that challenged us to think critically and work collaboratively. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day!”Martha, Year 9 pupil
