Basingstoke: Primary schoolchildren attend STEM fair

Seven primary schools in the area sent student teams to the event, which was held by Education Business Partnership (EBP) South, in partnership with the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE).

The STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) fair also featured activities from 10 local businesses, including a SimVan [a simulation experience], spell your name in DNA, the glovebox challenge, and investigating insulation with thermal imaging. 

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Teacher at Great Binfield Primary School, Emma Franklin, said: "One of our pupils said 'it was the best school day ever'. They were all so engaged and the day really brought the STEM subjects to life and gave them a real-world context."

Councillor Paul Harvey, leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, which sponsored the event along with Queen Mary's College, said: "We were delighted to support this fantastic event which aims to inspire the next generation to explore a career in science, technology, engineering and maths.” 

“It was great to see the enthusiasm from young people taking part in activities and challenges provided by businesses across the borough.

"Our Green Team was on hand to demonstrate thermal imaging cameras and was impressed by the curiosity, problem-solving and teamwork from students who investigated the effectiveness of different insulation materials.”  

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Chris Daniels, senior manager, environmental, social and governance at AWE said “We’re really proud to be involved in the Primary STEM Fair.

"All the exhibitors did a fantastic job of bringing STEM to life and seeing young people engage in the way they did is really rewarding. Thank you to EBP South for putting on such a successful event.”