Virtual Reality creates Bright Stars

Many people ask me about Virtual STEM work now we are able to go back into schools. So here is an example of how you can make it work and the advantages…

During Covid I set up Primary Voices and advertised it as a virtual assembly on the STEM Ambassador Hub *. Since it was virtual I received interest country wide including St James CE Junior at Barrow in Furness.

* you too can become a STEM Ambassador.

The assembly went well and we agreed to do more together including Bright Stars, which would normally be an 8 week programme in school. I did 7 of the weeks virtually and the last one in person.

So what was better?

For me the virtual absolutely had a place and with enthusiasm and encouraging interaction I still truly built up a relationship with the class. So much so when I arrived at the school for my final Bright Stars session I was greeted with a banner, a wonderful hand made cards and lots of smiles and cuddles.

This last in person session was the highlight. Whilst there students showed my videos and told me all the things they learned including teamwork, finances, marketing and because not everything went well resilience.

The whole experience has reinforced my belief that virtual is here to stay, especially when you listen to how much the students got out of the programme in Episode 14.

Well don’t take my word for it judge for yourself from the St James blogs and podcasts.

Photos from School Web Page showing how engaged they were during virtual sessions, working to create and operate their Smoothie business and my final visit where I was presented with the most wonderful card.

PODCASTs… Virtual Episode 7 and in person Episode 14

The Queens Baton

Thank you to our fantastic Climate Champion Julie Harrison for nominating me to carry the Commonwealth Games Queens Baton on behalf of everyone who contributes to Engineering Together and out associated groups. I had a wonderful time and I was inspired by my fellow Baton Bearers who each had a unique story of inspiring and community spirit.