Llantwit Major School STEM: Ambition in Action
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at Llantwit Major School
At Llantwit Major School, STEM ambition is more than just a value, it is something our learners live, explore, and grow through real-world experiences.
From building water filters out of natural materials to solve global health challenges, to investigating space and designing sustainable cities, our learners are discovering how science, technology, engineering, and maths go far beyond the classroom. Every time a learner signs up for a club, takes part in a project, visits a university, or speaks to a STEM ambassador, they are showing ambition and taking a bold step toward their future. |
Our STEM strategy is rooted in inclusion, equity and ambition. Through carefully planned experiences, visible role models and high expectations, we empower our learners to develop confidence, curiosity and a strong STEM identity.
Why does STEM matter?
Our world is changing fast. The jobs our learners will have might not even exist yet but critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving and resilience will always be in demand. STEM enrichment helps learners build those skills, try out future pathways, and realise that they could be the next inventor, engineer, conservationist, forecaster, statistician or computer analyst who changes the world.
Here is a snapshot of what the STEM offer at Llantwit Major School looks like:
- Taking part in the prestigious MIT Global Teaching Labs program
- Participating in The National Scientific Thinking Challenge
- Attending university masterclasses such as Natural Sciences (UCL)
- Designing packaging with sustainability in mind
- Filtering dirty water to simulate emergency survival
- Attending The Big Bang Fair at the NEC in Birmingham
- Visits to Renishaw to meet engineers
- Completing BTEC Level 3 investigative projects in Applied Science
- Engaging with ex-learners now working in leading STEM industries
- Competing in the ICAT Aeronautical Engineering Challenge
- Participation in the Biology, Chemistry and Physics Olympiads
- Engaging with Speakers for Schools, for example a Farmer (farming technology), Construction Engineer (Build a sustainable city) and Financial Advisor.
- Participation in the Royal Society of Chemistry Schools Analyst Competition
- Participation in the UKMT Junior and Senior Maths Challenges
- Participation in the BPhO Junior Physics Challenge
- Attending Further Maths Support Programme sessions on complex problem solving
These experiences don’t just teach - they inspire. They raise aspirations, fuel ambition, and remind learners that their ideas matter.
As one Year 9 learner said after a recent STEM challenge:
“I’ve never thought I’d be good at maths and science before but now I want to study engineering and make things that help people.”
STEM isn’t just about the future; it is about making learners believe that they belong in it.
If you have any ideas regarding what we could include in our school’s STEM enrichment program please get in touch with Mrs E Denscombe (Director of Science) at ScienceDepartment@llantwitschool.org.uk
From Curiosity to Career in STEM: Your Future has a Formula.
