Bright Sparks STEAM School Sessions

Bright Sparks STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths) school sessions

Each STEAM activity is linked to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts or Maths degree subjects and aligned to the National Curriculum, Gatsby Benchmarks, as well as the NERUPI Framework.

Our Bright Sparks activities can take place at the University of Sunderland, at your school, or even online. Please complete our expression of interest form to find out more.

Become a Journalist

Session Length: 60 minutes
Location: In person session, live online session, pre-recorded video or self-delivery by teacher

In this session, students will focus on the arts aspect of STEAM by exploring what journalism is and why it is important. Pupils will explore the history of journalism and how journalists have the power to influence the way society thinks, feels and views certain situations. Pupils will then step into the shoes of a journalist and create their very own article on a topic of their choice.

Gatsby Benchmark: 2, 4, 7
NERUPI Framework: Know, Choose, Understand

Fold for Take-off!

Session Length: 60 minutes
Location: In person session, live online session, pre-recorded video or self-delivery by teacher

Can you imagine living in a world without trains, planes or cars? This session explores how engineers have solved the problems of humankind through their inventions. The session focuses on the engineering aspect of STEAM and introduces pupils to the career of an engineer. Pupils will explore the history of aviation and put their knowledge to the test to try and solve some of the problems the aviation industry is going to face in the future. Pupils will also have the chance to design, create and test a paper flying craft.

Gatsby Benchmark: 2, 4, 7
NERUPI Framework: Know, Choose, Understand

Game Developer

Session Length: 60 minutes
Location: In person session, live online session or self-delivery by teacher

This session is centred around the technology aspect of STEAM and introduces pupils to the career of a game developer. Pupils will explore the history of their favourite consoles and games and delve deeper into the topic of game design. Through this interactive session, pupils will have the chance to design their very own game. Through exploring how to become a game developer, pupils will learn about Higher Education and the relating degree courses and careers.

Gatsby Benchmark: 2, 4, 7
NERUPI Framework: Know, Choose, Understand

What's on the Menu?

Session Length: 60 minutes
Location: In person session, live online session or self-delivery by teacher

Do you really know what it means to be healthy? This session focuses on the science aspect of STEAM and introduces pupils to the career of a nutritionist. Pupils will learn about nutrition and exercise, and how they contribute to a healthy body. Through exploring how to become a nutritionist, pupils will learn about university and the relating degree courses and careers.

Gatsby Benchmark: 2, 4, 7
NERUPI Framework: Know, Choose, Understand