A brand-new weekly science club has launched at Monkton Wood Academy, sparking curiosity and creativity among Key Stage 3 students.
The club, led by Bryony Blinman and assistance from Step into Teaching science apprentices Henry and Katelyn, already welcomes around 15–20 students each week.
Though aimed primarily at KS3, the club has also attracted a couple of enthusiastic Year 10 students who volunteer their time to help out.
Personal invitations were sent out to encourage participation, and the response has been fantastic.
To keep students motivated and engaged, attendees receive a sticker each week they attend. Those who collect 10 stickers earn a coveted Science Club pin badge – a reward that’s quickly becoming a popular goal among the group.
Each week brings a hands-on activity. At a recent session, Henry led students in building their own ecosystems inside terrariums – ingeniously repurposing an old, leaky fish tank for the project.
Bryony Blinman, Teacher of Science at Monkton Wood Academy, said: “It’s been wonderful to see students so engaged and excited about science.
“Henry and Katelyn bring great energy to the club, and the hands-on activities really capture the student’s imagination.”