Today I visited The Kingsway School in Cheadle to see them be presented with the award of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) excellence. The school is one of only a few nationally, and the first school in Stockport, to receive this honour.

The award follows The Kingsway School promoting STEM subjects through dedicated STEM days, which allow students to gain more knowledge of engineering and problem solving, and gives them practical experience. At the recent STEM day in March which I also attended, there was a “Dragon’s Den” style event where students had to design and demonstrate an original product before facing a panel, and a careers event to show what jobs are available through studying STEM subjects.

At the award presentation, I took the opportunity to speak to staff about how they plan to continue promoting STEM subjects, and guide students towards rewarding careers in STEM industries. I also spoke to students about their experiences studying STEM, and their career aspirations after they finish their studies.

It’s great to see that under the leadership of Head Teacher Joanne Lowe and the efforts of dedicated staff that STEM is playing such a big part in students developing their analytical, team work and leadership skills. With the calibre and enthusiasm of the students I met, it’s no surprise that The Kingsway School is the first school in Stockport to receive the award of STEM Excellence through the Museum of Science and Industry, and it was particularly pleasing to see them presented with it on Women In Engineering Day.