Hassocks school wins national STEM award

The STEM Club at the school in Dale Avenue, Keymer, was awarded ‘Oustanding STEM Club’ at the STEM Inspiration Awards 2019.

The prestigious event was held at the House of Lords on November 5.

The awards celebrate those extraordinary individuals and organisations who inspire young people to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

The judges praised Helen Colvert, learning mentor science/STEM coordinator at the school: “With STEM clubs currently running, Downlands Community School has done an exceptional job raising the profile of STEM subjects.

“The clubs are highly collaborative, working with others schools, STEM Ambassadors and with a range of industries.

“They also encourage a highly practical approach, with students developing business plans and working through a real life design/build processes.

“It’s no surprise that the clubs have grown in popularity and in number.”

STEM Learning is a non-profit dedicated to raising young people’s engagement and achievement in STEM, increasing the numbers progressing in STEM studies and STEM-related careers.

Yvonne Baker, chief executive of STEM Learning, said: “I am delighted to celebrate some truly amazing people, all of whom work tirelessly to broaden the horizons of young people in the UK.

“In this year’s winners we have seen fantastic examples of schools, colleges and STEM employers working together.

“This collaboration is vital as it helps inspire the next generation of STEM professionals, highlighting the skills needed by students and the opportunities available to them in tomorrow’s STEM careers.”