We’re delighted to support Emma Partington and Waulud Primary School in developing a child-led STEM outdoor play and learning environment for KS2 pupils. Funding will help create a dedicated creative STEM area on the playground, extending opportunities for disadvantaged children to access practical, imaginative and active learning outdoors.
The project will enable the school to establish an after-school STEM Club and expand its Junior Duke Club, which currently takes place indoors. New resources will include den-building equipment such as ropes, tarpaulins, planks, tyres and cable reels; problem-solving resources including wooden and foam blocks and milk crates; and science and physics materials such as tubes, guttering, funnels and bamboo pipes.
These resources will provide children with opportunities to experiment, investigate, design, build and solve problems through hands-on activities. The child-led approach will encourage creativity, imagination and enjoyment while supporting physical activity and developing practical STEM skills.
The project particularly reflects Achieve Equity Foundation’s commitment to ensuring disadvantaged children have equitable access to enriching experiences and opportunities. By creating an outdoor STEM environment, Waulud Primary aims to increase access to activities that develop children’s knowledge and understanding of STEM, while helping them explore the possibilities of future STEM careers.
By bringing STEM learning outdoors and giving children greater ownership of their experiences, Waulud Primary School is creating an environment where disadvantaged pupils can be active, creative and curious learners, while developing the skills, confidence and aspirations that can support them both in school and beyond.