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Pupils Harness Wind Power

Mosslands students engage in a STEM challenge to create a windturbine

Working on designs

Mosslands School students put their design, technology, engineering and maths talents to the test in a one-day challenge set by educational charity, The Smallpeice Trust.  The challenge took place as part a programme sponsored by National Grid to promote the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects.

Working in small groups, this introductory session was designed to enhance students aptitude for problem solving, creativity, design and engineering and was especially geared to complement to the National Curriculum.

Designing

The 50 Year 9 pupils worked on a project called The Wind Turbine Challenge, where they had to design and construct a wind turbine to produce the greatest amount of electricity. The turbine had to be free-standing and structurally robust to support heavy components and moving parts.

The project not only had time constraints, but also budgetary and aesthetical challenges. 

 

 

Philip Ferguson, Smallpeice Trust Associate Education Officer said “It was very encouraging to see the students so enthusiastic about the project.  Their creative thinking and problem solving skills were put to the test as they tackled the tasks in hand.  We hope boys will consider engineering when looking to choose future study options. ”

Buying materialsBuilding the windmillDragons Den style pitch

The windmills were put to the test using a fan to act as wind

Brian Taylor, from the school said “We were delighted to have this opportunity. It will encourage our pupils to connect the taught elements of science and technology to what happens in engineering in the real world. By taking part in this STEM day, we are hoping demonstrate to pupils that there are exciting and rewarding career paths available.”

A number of pupils will now have the opportunity of going on to take part in a residential course for 100 students at the University of Liverpool.  The course has been designed to offer an even deeper insight into engineering plus a taste of university life.

About The Smallpeice Trust

The Smallpeice Trust is an independent charitable trust which promotes engineering as a career, primarily through the provision of residential courses for young people aged 13 to 18.  

For more information about The Smallpeice Trust and the training they provide, please visit www.smallpeicetrust.org.uk