STEM is an approach to learning and development that integrates Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Its key skills are; problem solving, critical analysis, teamwork, communication, using initiative and developing independent thinking. We certainly saw all of these skills today on the Rocket Challenge with Year 8.
Our visitors from BMW spoke about their apprenticeships and engineering journeys and demonstrating the robotic ‘dog’ Spotto that they use at the Hams Hall plant showing us the amazing things it is capable of doing. Many students were able to control the robot for themselves using the tablet, and we all were amazed by his agile moves and fire escape climb.
Students were then be laboratory based with Science, Technology and mathematics staff to undertake their own engineering challenge. This involved the designing and making of a water rocket that will travel furthest when launched from the school field. Students needed to understand and consider the principals of streamlining, aerodynamics, centre of mass and balance, fin and nose cone design in order to meet their brief.
What a great competition, the sun shone and there were many creative designs and many rockets that travelled good distances (breaking last years records by far) and in a straight line! Each rocket was launched by the students to the 5,4,3,2,1 countdown. Four finalists had a second chance in the knockout with the final winners being Connie, Aimee, Layla and Hope for Phoenix house who set two distance records, a great way to celebrate Hopes birthday. Fantastic achievement. The morning ended with a powered rocket launch and its parachute drop back to Earth finale. Great inspiration for our potential future Engineers.
