Today, thirteen of our Year 8 students had an exciting opportunity to attend the University of Birmingham’s Maths and Science Discovery Day. The event aimed to give young learners an inside look at studying STEM subjects at university. Through engaging workshops and hands-on activities, students explored various aspects of STEM fields, sparking curiosity and expanding their understanding of how these subjects impact everyday life.
The day included two interactive workshops. The first session focused on cyber security, where students learned about the growing importance of online safety and the risks associated with phishing. Through real-world examples and activities, students were taught how to recognise phishing attempts and protect themselves online—a critical skill in today’s digital world.
The second workshop explored renewable energy, specifically solar power. Students learned how solar panels generate electricity, the balance between using and storing power, and practical energy-saving upgrades for homes. This session not only introduced students to sustainable energy solutions but also highlighted the importance of energy conservation for the future of our planet.
To wrap up the day, students enjoyed a Q&A session with university student ambassadors, who shared insights into university life, from academics to extracurriculars. The ambassadors introduced them to the over 300 societies available at the University of Birmingham, showcasing the variety of ways students can connect and pursue their interests beyond the classroom.
As a fun conclusion, our students were challenged to create their own society. With an inspired bit of creativity from A. Taylor 8B1, they designed the Water Fight Society—a club where students could cool off with water fights using water guns and reusable water balloons, reducing plastic waste. The imaginative concept presented by T. Lancaster 8B1 and C. Hamshaw 8B1won over the student ambassadors, who awarded our students the Best Society idea
Our Year 8s returned inspired and motivated, having gained new insights into STEM and university life. This day was a wonderful opportunity for them to see firsthand the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in both their academic and personal journeys.
