Key Stage 3 Students Inspired at STEAM Northants
Students in Key Stage 3 recently enjoyed an exciting and inspiring visit to STEAM Northants at the University of Northampton. This large-scale event, held at the university’s Waterside Campus, brought together a wide range of free activities, workshops, interactive zones, and live demonstrations designed to engage young people in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).
STEAM Northants is one of the biggest careers events in the county, welcoming over 3,000 visitors from Year 6 through to Year 13, alongside more than 70 exhibitors and companies. The event offered students a valuable opportunity to explore future career pathways, meet industry professionals, and experience how STEAM subjects are applied in real-world contexts.
Throughout the day, students took part in a variety of engaging sessions. One of the highlights was the Planetarium Dome Cinema, where they experienced an immersive 30-minute 3D science show focused on space. This interactive adventure allowed students to discover the wonders of the universe and experience the excitement of 3D cinema in a unique learning environment.
Students also participated in a Neurology Workshop, where they explored how the brain works, how our senses contribute to learning, and the importance of brain development. This hands-on session encouraged curiosity and helped deepen their understanding of how we process and respond to the world around us.
Another memorable experience was the HMGCC “Morse (De)code” workshop. HMGCC (His Majesty’s Government Communications Centre) introduced students to the historical use of Morse code in secure wartime communications. Students explored replica devices such as the MK XVII receiver and MK III transmitter, gaining insight into how coded messages were transmitted and learning to decode messages themselves in a fun and interactive way.
In addition to these sessions, students had time to explore over 80 interactive stalls featuring university departments, local employers, and apprenticeship providers. Each stand offered hands-on activities and valuable information, helping students to understand the wide range of opportunities available and what different career pathways might look like.
Miss Fern Gibson, Careers Leader, said:
“It was a privilege to take 80 students across 3 year groups to this event who all had an interest in learning more about STEAM related careers. The students represented the academy tremendously and were fully engaged in all of the activities. I hope they all now have a better understanding of the careers linked to STEAM subjects and how these connect to their own interests, supporting them in making informed decisions about their future.”
The trip was a fantastic success, leaving students feeling motivated, inspired, and more informed about the exciting possibilities within STEAM fields.