By Mrs Gethins (Head of Science)

After BGS became a Youth STEMM Award centre in 2023, we were pleased to see students take up the opportunity to engage with the programme. Three students are currently working towards their awards. Ayesha Bacon (Year 10), who achieved her Bronze Award last year, is now working towards Gold, while Aqualina Henderson and Ella Coupland in Year 9 are both working towards Bronze.

The initiative is jointly led by Mr Holden, Maths Teacher, and me as Head of Science, supporting students as they progress through the programme.

The Youth STEMM Award provides a structured framework that encourages participants to engage in a wider range of activities, enhancing their impact and personal development. Through this, students gain valuable skills, build confidence and create a record of achievement. The programme focuses on inspiring the public, engaging with younger students, developing skills and knowledge and shaping future aspirations.

Designed to support and inspire the next generation into STEMM, Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine, the award requires students to log their hours and reflect on their learning in a personal digital portfolio. On completion, they receive a digital badge, a medal and a certificate, and can add Youth STEMM Award holders to their CV as well as select it as an option on their UCAS university application.

Ella Coupland (Year 9) said: “For my STEMM award, I made four posters, these were on nebulae, fungi, moon phases and Pluto. I really enjoyed the process of researching, and then being able to share my work with others, as well as it counting towards something long term. As well as this, I also expanded my knowledge on all these topics, therefore being able to link it to my general schoolwork. I find that working towards the award is overall a fun process, and it doesn’t feel overwhelming or pressuring at all. It very much accommodates you and how much time you have to put towards it.”