Students at Rayne Primary School enjoyed a fun-filled day of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Students at Rayne Primary School enjoyed a fun-filled day of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), thanks to a collaborative effort between Braintree District Council and the Chelmsford Science and Engineering Society.
The special STEM event, which took place on Thursday, 19 June, saw students take part in a rotation of three interactive workshops designed to showcase how STEM-related subjects apply in real-world careers.
Volunteers from the Chelmsford Science and Engineering Society brought the sessions to life with hands-on activities and engaging demonstrations.
During the sessions, students protected an egg dropped from a height, built a bridge that could support several kilos just from a few pieces of paper and built load bearing towers from spaghetti and marshmallows.
The activities tested their imagination, ingenuity and skill in trying different engineering principles to produce the best result. Whilst these were fun activities, they demonstrate real life engineering used in everything from designing space craft retrieval to the construction of buildings and bridges.
The aim of the initiative is to encourage children to think about the rewarding career possibilities STEM subjects can unlock.
The event, sponsored by Essex County Council and Braintree District Council, was made possible through the time and expertise of local STEM volunteers.
Cllr Frankie Ricci, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Infrastructure at Braintree District Council, said: “Events like this spark enthusiasm, raise aspirations and show students that science, maths, engineering and technology aren't just subjects in school – they're gateways to rewarding and meaningful careers. We're pleased to have played our part in supporting this initiative and would like to thank all the volunteers who made it happen."
Professor David Humber, Vice President of the Chelmsford Science and Engineering Society, said: “It’s always enjoyable working with primary school students as they are so enthusiastic and engaging, and our STEM activities fosters critical thinking and creativity which benefits them throughout their education and beyond."
Mrs Sarah-Jane Pyne, Assistant Headteacher at Rayne Primary and Nursery School, said: “The pupils in year 4, 5 and 6 had an amazing time. They were able to get hands on with STEM and understand how engineers are real-life problem solvers. We are extremely grateful to all the organisers who planned such engaging activities, the volunteers who gave up their time to work with the children, and Braintree District Council and Essex County Council for funding the event.”
The Council plans on delivering similar events in the future, helping build strong foundations for young learners across the district.