Members of the Fourth Form enjoyed a fantastic day at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst last Friday, visiting their annual STEM Fair. After a short welcome speech in the Churchill Rooms, they were escorted to Old College parade ground where there were over 50 stands presenting career opportunities from a wide range of employers from the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.

Every stand had an interactive element including sniffer dogs, bridge building, flight simulators and the latest camera technology. Our pupils engaged with all the presentations with great enthusiasm, gaining insight into the vast range of career opportunities, work experience placements and training available beyond their GCSE studies. There were also a wide range of military representatives with backgrounds in STEM subjects, who have found successful careers within the armed forces. Popular exhibits were the bomb disposal robotics unit, the intelligence agency and the Apache helicopter, which underwent a service from its engineers while the visiting students looked on.

Special mention must go to Toby Butler for his winning shot in the Fire Brigade rescue demonstration and to our three Sixth Form helpers’ enthusiastic efforts on the eight-person circular bike, designed for group travel without the need for an engine. Everyone enjoyed a picnic on the famous steps of Old College with a chance to see the Princess Royal and the Academy Commandant as they toured the fair. The day ended with a visit to the rooms inside the Old College building, sadly not to join the Royal lunch party, but they were able to join a fascinating question and answer session with a panel of representatives from ICT and the military.

Mrs Loy
STEM Coordinator