Inspiring young minds

Future generations of scientists and engineers were thrilled to experience the magic of Chichester College’s STEM Fair last term.

The college welcomed more than 500 pupils from nine local schools, inviting them to embark on a journey of discovery as they tried out a whole host of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) activities. They were able to have-a-go at crime scene investigation using fingerprint analysis, experience virtual reality, change tires, present in front of a green screen – and even experienced walking on oobleck, a custard-like substance which replicates what it may be like to walk on water! Bosmere Junior School, based in Havant, brought 90 Year 6 pupils to the event and they wrote to the college to share their experience and how it had changed the way they saw science! Harley said: “Science is not really my thing, I like sports. But I was fascinated, now I want to know how it all works and study it.” Jada added: “Your amazing fair has got me interested in science and engineering!” These sentiments were shared by their classmates including Francesca, who wrote: “Once I knew what STEM stood for, I was happy and really looking forward to it. “It went so far past all of our expectations. It really inspired me to do science and all the activities were amazing. They really helped me and made me want to be a scientist.” Evie added: “When I walked in, I already knew that it would be amazing and it was! “It was so much fun and there was so much to do when I am older, I would like to be a scientist so that I can hopefully be involved in a STEM fair myself!” The event, which was also attended by West Sussex Waste Prevention, was themed around recycling and women in STEM, aiming to encourage more female pupils to consider a future in science, engineering and technology. Andy Chater, head of learning, said: “I am incredibly proud of the STEM staff and students who ran this event in order to support pupils from the local primary and secondary schools and I was particularly impressed with the enthusiasm and engagement of the students who attended. “Hopefully we have captured their imagination and inspired them to consider a future career in STEM.”