STEM SUSSEX

The STEM Challenges are ten activities that have been inspired by the preparations for London 2012. Each one will focus on a different aspect of the preparations or the event itself.

Contextual approach

The aim is to provide a contextual and cross-curricular approach to studying the STEM subjects at Key Stage Three, demonstrating to students the links between these subjects along with some of the related careers. The challenges will include case studies and career profiles to help illustrate and bring to life each context.

A typical focus could be one of the following:

• researching and testing materials used for an item of sportswear
• creating a scale model of a racing boat
• modelling the construction of a sports arena on the main park
• the technology and special effects used in the opening ceremony.

Of course, we are only giving examples here as the actual challenges are shrouded in secrecy until each one is officially announced.

The challenges will each run for approximately six to eight weeks. They have been designed so that you can carry them out in a club environment (e.g. a STEM Club) or even during lessons.

Find out about how the STEM Challenges work.

Who is managing the STEM Challenges?

The STEM Challenges are being managed by the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Network (STEMNET) in association with the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and are funded by the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF).