Science Technology Engineering Maths (STEM)

STEM projects are designed to have a positive impact on learners in STEM subjects , leading to improved engagement and achievement in learning and an increased pursuit of STEM subjects and careers post-16. STEM subjects are valuable not only because they can lead to exciting, rewarding career options, but also because they enable individuals to be active citizens in an increasingly technological society.

At James Bateman we have been involved in a number of STEM activities already and are determined to increase this involvement year on year. After a very successful  learning experience last academic year, James Bateman Middle School is again working in partnership with Siemens of Congleton, as part of a STEM project, with a group of our year 7 and 8 pupils working as part of a team to build a roller coaster. STEM ambassadors from Siemens will be supporting them along the journey. Equipment to build the rollercoaster is provided by Siemens, and pupils also have an opportunity to visit Siemens in Congleton to see STEM projects in a working environment. Last academic year was our school’s first entry in the competition, being one of only two schools representing Staffordshire, our competition was against other high schools in and around the Congleton area. We came fourth and were extremely proud of our pupils and their commitment to the project. We aim to improve on that this year against, no doubt, some tough competition.

Year 5 and 6 pupils usually take part in building a tower using spaghetti, but last year the competition had a slight twist on the theme and became building a successful launching projectile catapult.

This year we have excelled ourselves already and have invested in a Goblin electric racing car. Thanks to KMF and Hollinsheads coaches a group of enthusiastic engineers have already visited a race in June at Stafford and are visiting KMF’s workshop to support the build of the car. We aim to be racing ourselves in the summer term of 2018.

All of year 7 will be involved in ‘race for the line’ this year. The rocket cars are already in school and dates for the challenge are at this time being decided.