Welcome to the See Science Primary School Newsletter
|
|
|
Welcome to November's primary newsletter. We hope you had a relaxing half term break.
There's lots coming up this Autumn both online and inperson.
We know there are a few bugs with the new STEM Ambassador Platform but hope that nearly all the main issues are now resolved. STEM Learning appreciate your patience as they work to resolve them. Your feedback so far has been invaluable - thank you for helping us improve the experience for everyone.
If you are running a STEM Club or organising a STEM event please post a request on the platform so that STEM Ambassadors can offer help with events.
We have highlighted some upcoming events in Wales below.
|
|
|
|
|
|
What's been happening in Wales
|
Super Science Saturday
Super Science Saturday was a remarkable event held at Brecon High School on Saturday, 4th October. This exciting day of discovery and exploration was organised by the Institute of Physics and proudly supported by the Royal Society of Chemistry, showcasing a variety of fascinating science-based activities and interactive presentations for people of all ages.
The day featured captivating shows designed to engage and educate attendees on various scientific concepts. One of the highlights was "Harry Potter - Science or Magic?", an intriguing show that explored the science behind some of the magical phenomena seen in the iconic Harry Potter series. Another standout presentation was "Frozen!", which delved into amazing scientific principles using ice and cold temperatures as the basis for experiments and demonstrations. Additionally, Science Made Simple delivered an engaging and interactive show aimed at uncovering the mysteries of water—examining its composition and the extraordinary things it can do, offering insights into this fundamental substance that shapes our world.
Families, friends, and teachers from both primary and secondary schools came together to enjoy the day. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for networking and sharing knowledge, fostering connections between educators, students, and the wider community, all united by their enthusiasm for science.
During the lunch break, attendees were treated to "The Great Science Share", a session packed with hands-on activities that delighted children and adults alike. Participants had the chance to construct jelly baby towers, experiment with floating and sinking, and explore a stunning map of Wales filled with fascinating scientific details. These activities encouraged creativity and curiosity, allowing young minds to engage directly with science in a fun and practical way.
A special thanks was extended to the dedicated STEM Ambassadors who volunteered their time and expertise to make the day such a success. Despite the challenging conditions brought by Storm Amy, the event drew an impressive crowd, with over 150 adults and children attending. Their resilience and enthusiasm truly highlighted the passion for science in the community.
Super Science Saturday was not only an educational experience but also a celebration of science that sparked wonder and excitement in everyone who attended. It demonstrated the vital importance of bringing science to life and making it accessible to all, inspiring the next generation of scientists, innovators, and curious minds.
|
|
The Swansea Science Festival, the largest Festival of its kind in Wales
The Swansea Science Festival, recognised as the largest science festival in Wales, took place on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th October 2025. This exciting weekend offered an unique opportunity for individuals of all ages to engage with science through discovery, fun, and inspiration
|
|
|
One of the highlights of this year’s festival was the presence of Hamza Yassin, a renowned wildlife cameraman and Strictly Come Dancing champion. Hamza will delivered captivating talks, sharing fascinating stories from his experiences behind the camera and discussing his deep passion for the natural world.
As usual the festival boasts a diverse programme of shows and activities designed to spark curiosity and excitement. These include interactive sessions such as "Bubbles and Balloons!", "Super Hero Scientists", and the visually stunning "Glow with the Flow!". Whether you’re interested in hands-on experiments, creative exploration, or scientific demonstrations, there is something for everyone.
A key feature of the event is its accessibility, offering an affordable way for families to spend quality time together during the half-term break. With a mix of free activities and ticketed events, visitors can choose from a wide range of engaging options tailored to all age groups.
In addition to the live performances, attendees had the chance to visit exhibition stands showcasing cutting-edge research conducted at Swansea University. These exhibits provide a hands-on opportunity to explore innovative scientific advancements and discover new ideas.
With over 6,000 attendees, the Swansea Science Festival continues to grow in popularity and promises an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in science, technology, and discovery
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Oriel Science Workshops
Oriel Science at Swansea offers free, curriculum-linked science workshops for state
schools.
Each 90-minute session is designed by an experienced teacher, aligned with the
Curriculum for Wales, and available to book between 10:00–15:00, Tuesday to
Friday during term time.
Themes change regularly, so if you don’t find something that fits your class this time,
check back soon.
|
|
|
|
The British Science Week 2026 taster pack is out now
|
|
|
CREST
The packs also include a wide range of fun, hands-on activities, and loads of useful information about running CREST Awards, British Science Association’s flagship STEM education programme. Many of the activities are suitable for CREST Awards, so if you enjoyed using them, why not think about running a CREST Award? CREST Awards give students real-life experience of being a scientist while getting introduced to STEM project work. They are nationally accredited and are a fun, yet educational way to get your children involved in STEM subjects.
|
|
Our full activity packs, arriving in January 2026, will be bursting with fun, hands-on ideas to spark curiosity and inspire young minds to explore the world around them. Can’t wait until then? Dive into the taster pack now and start exploring.Following the success of last year’s bumper pack, in which we brought activities for early years, primary and secondary-aged audiences together, we’re doing the same this year – all the activities are in one place
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
POP into Protecting our Planet Day in November 2025!
Protecting Our Planet Day (POP) is the inspiring live-streamed event for schools brought to you by the UK Space Education Office (ESERO-UK) at STEM Learning and in collaboration with the European Space Agency and the UK Space Agency.Join us on Thursday 27th November when a world full of experts and leading researchers - passionate people working to protect our planet from here on Earth and from space - pop into your classroom. POP25 welcomes new inspirational speakers as well as previous legendary partners popping back in!
|
|
|
**ESERO resources available in Welsh soon.**
Register for POP25 and pop in and out of sessions across the day with your class or whole school.
|
|
|
|
|
Young Coders Competition
The Young Coders competition brings you a fantastic opportunity for you and your young people to gain hands-on experience in coding with Scratch.
Currently, the
competition is open for children aged 8 to 13 years old who can work individually or in teams to create their project.
|
|
Greenpower Goblins
Greenpower Education Trust is a UK based charity which gets young people enthusiastic about science and engineering by challenging them to design, build and race an electric car.
Ideal for schools, which can run the project as part of the design and technology/science curriculum
|
|
CREST Awards
Explore CREST primary resources, the latest news and inspiring case studies from CREST Awards. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or want to stay informed, this section showcases things you need to know for running CREST with your pupils across the UK and beyond
|
|
|
|
Share with your friends and colleagues
|
Do all staff in your Department receive the See Science newsletter - please alsk them to register on the STEM Learning Platform to enable them to receive newsletters, request STEM Ambassadors, download resources and register for CPD opportunities
|
|
|
Become part of the STEM Community
|
We are a community of over 35,000 teachers; technicians; TA's and governors, all involved in the STEM education of young people supporting and collaborating with each other to improve the outcomes of young people
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
