Science prjects '˜wow' village primary students

All pupils at the schools were set the task of creating a science investigation which could be brought into school and demonstrated to classmates, parents, governors and members of the community.

Children brought in a vast range of experiments including lava lamps, vinegar volcanoes, magnetic marvels and exploding Coke bottles and the hall at St James’ was filled with visiting science guests who introduced the children to the inspiring world of STEM (Science, Technology, Maths and Engineering).

Science is at the heart of the curriculum at both Amberley and St James’ Schools.

Jon Gilbert, headteacher at both schools, said: “There are so many skills that can be taught through science including measuring and recording accurately, reasoning, learning from mistakes, persevering and working collaboratively to solve problems together.”

The science fayres were hugely successful with a number of prospective parents visiting the school for the first time.

One visitor commented: “The science fayre was such a huge success! My two absolutely loved it and really enjoyed researching, preparing and practising their experiments. Such a great idea!’

Another said: “I was delighted to see the high standard of behaviour and respect which the children displayed to a mixture of governors, teaching staff, parents and other visitors.

“ I asked several children to describe the science project that they were demonstrating and their answers generally showed their enthusiasm for the experiments as well as some knowledge of the process.

“All teaching staff should be commended for their efforts in setting up the science fayre projects with their pupils.’

This is an exciting time at both schools; they have both recently received ‘Good’ Ofsted gradings and the schools’ collaboration is proving to be a model of success for the future of small, rural, village schools.