A SCHOOL science club is the first in the country to be given maximum marks in a national awards assessment.
Downend School Science Club has been awarded the Silver STEM Clubs Quality Mark to recognise its work over the last two years providing activities for pupils to develop their knowledge, skills, and understanding of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects.
So far, students have tested acids and alkalis, grown crystal gardens, built a lighthouse, designed burglar alarms and made plastic from milk.
The club has also worked on improving biodiversity around the school — planting bulbs and wildflower seeds, creating a wall-mounted bug hotel, and building bug boxes.
They have also visited the school’s Downend and Bromley Heath in Bloom bee garden and pond site to find out how to design a garden to support wildlife.
Science teacher Ursula Bowlt said: “Currently, students are working on a wind turbine project in partnership with a manager from RWE Renewables UK, using virtual reality to ‘visit’ offshore wind turbines.”
The project has also explored the work of Practical Action, which designs turbines for use in remote mountain areas of Peru, and teenage engineer William Kamkwamba from Malawi, who built his own wind turbine aged 14.
The award encourages clubs to build links with local employers and the wider community, and this has included inviting local radiologists and engineers to work with students and going on trips.
These included a visit to the Sustainable Transport Challenge at Bath University, following weeks of work on their own transport designs.
Ms Bowlt said: “The creativity and enthusiasm shown by the students was a delight. Transport concepts included a human-sized hamster wheel and a car powered by food waste collected along the journey.”
Students have reported that the club has inspired them to work in STEM industries after leaving school.
The Quality Mark awards are made by STEM Learning, a national body working with the government, employers, and other organisations.
In their report, the group’s assessor said: “I have never assessed such a well-rounded, information-laden report before.
“This is the first maximum score achieved.
“It is highly commended for showing what an incredible club this is. It is clearly a club to be proud of.”
Ms Bowlt said: “The STEM Clubs Quality Mark highlights the high standard of extracurricular opportunities for young people of all ages and abilities at our school.
“Students develop a sense of belonging, form new friendships, and learn in a fun, relaxed environment.
“We are now looking forward to planning our fireworks and Christmas sessions. Sparklers and rockets never fail to please!”