STEM event sparks imaginations of Mayfield School pupils

Pupils from Mayfield School – aged 4 to 14 years -- took part in the two-day event run by Sellafield Ltd’s Engineering Centre of Excellence.

Pupil Joey Nawrockyj meets the Robotic Dog (Image: Mayfield School)

The students were encouraged to be hands-on with a wide variety of games and equipment aimed at engaging and exciting them.  These included a robotic dog, racing cars, building kits and plasma balls.

Pupils were supported in developing their STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) skills by the Centre’s team of staff and graduates who helped them interact and puzzle-solve.

Testing their skills were pupils Nolan Halligan and Ben Rodwell (Image: Mayfield School)

Claire O’Connor, social impact lead at the Centre of Excellence, said: “We are all very passionate about being in the community encouraging pupils to develop their skills. It has been a great pleasure seeing their reactions.’’ 

Sellafield also donated a plasma ball, lights and fidget toys to the school at the end of the event.

Pupil Chase Robinson gets to grips with the task (Image: Mayfield School)

Sarah Sim, a Mayfield teacher who organised the event, said: “The aim was to provide our pupils with a STEM day that would develop their problem-solving skills, life and key skills, and spark interests for employability.

“There was something for everyone including a robot dog which was a big success, plasma balls, different science circuits and much more. We cannot thank the staff from Sellafield enough for a fun- filled day.’’

Ava Rose Neen concentrating hard on her building skills (Image: Mayfield School)

Sophie McCabe, head of Mayfield, said: “It was a fantastic event which was enjoyed by all our pupils at our Whitehaven site.  

“Staff and pupils found it fun and fascinating, and loved that it was hands on.  We are incredibly grateful of the support from Sellafield and we are already looking forward to holding this again next year.’’