We had an exciting British Science Week which was based around the theme of Growth.
During science lessons, all Year 7 to 9 students completed a nationally recognised CREST Award. This award allows students the chance to experience project work whilst encouraging young people to think and behave like scientists and engineers. CREST Awards can be used to show potential colleges and universities that a student has developed key employability skills.
All year 7 students met Safari Phil and his amazing critters. Brave students held Madagascan cockroaches, steered a tortoise called Armageddon, held two pythons and met a blue tongued skink called Slushie! As well as learning about how to care for these animals, Phil and his Team also answered many careers questions to help students understand what routes and qualifications were needed to become an animal handler, business owner, entomologist or zoologist.
Year 7 also received a pack of sunflower seeds to plant at home with their families so that they can continue their learning of how plants grow at home. There are prizes for the tallest and largest seeds heads, with judging taking place at the start of September. Students are being encouraged to send regular updates of their seedlings to the science department’s Twitter account. It was a mammoth job getting the packs together and we can’t wait to see the results brightening the community’s gardens around the Academy.
Year 8 spent time with a Falconer who brought 5 different birds to meet our students. The birds flew around the Auditorium and showed off their agility and speed. Students were able to hold the birds and some were used as “gateposts” for the falcon to fly through.