Pupils from Afon y Felin Primary School and Ysgol Cynwyd Sant have recently navigated their way through to the UK finals of the Formula 1 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Challenge, which will be held in Rotherham on March 12.
Encouraging the use of cross curricular skills, the Formula One (F1) STEM engineering project is based on building and modifying a model F1 car. Project lead at Afon y Felin Primary School, Andrew Brown, said: “This has been a wonderful, inclusive, STEM experience which has enriched my teaching experience as a newly qualified teacher. It has also been the perfect project to help to develop the aspirations of the children.”
This was the first time for Afon y Felin to enter the competition and the school was praised by organisers for its inclusivity. Unlike most schools, who sent only a focus group, Afon y Felin entered the whole of Progression Step 3, including five mixed ability groups.
Headteacher, Denise Jones, said: “We are thrilled with the success of our school! We have always focused on aspirational learning for our children, and they have shown how their determination and ambition to achieve excellence has led to their success! Our school community has certainly achieved a huge sense of pride from this event and the F1 in Schools organisers were delighted that we were able to show how inclusive this project has been.
“This work has really engaged and raised the aims of the children, with many of them now curious about STEM careers. This has been the greatest success for us as a school.”
Following the recent success of the two schools at the South Wales Regional Final, held at St Fagans National Museum, we wish them the very best of luck in the UK finals at Rotherham this week.
How wonderful it is that in helping the children to design and build a car, you are also able to build their self-esteem, encourage them to reach for the stars, and teach them that the sky is the limit if they work hard. So very well done to all involved! Once again, good luck!
Councillor Jon-Paul Blundell, Cabinet Member for Education
