As part of our ongoing commitment to enriching students’ learning experiences beyond the classroom, we were delighted to host the Royal Navy for a special STEM-focused outreach day with our Year 8 and 9 pupils. The event was designed to inspire curiosity, promote teamwork, and show how science, technology, engineering, and mathematics play a vital role in modern careers - particularly within the Royal Navy.

Throughout the day, students took part in a range of hands-on challenges and interactive demonstrations, all led by experienced Royal Navy personnel. Activities focused on practical applications of physics, engineering principles, and problem-solving, giving students the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in school to real-world scenarios.

Highlights included team-based engineering tasks, where pupils had to build and test structures under time pressure, as well as sessions exploring how navigation, communication, and design rely on scientific thinking. The visiting team also shared fascinating insights into life in the Navy, discussing how STEM skills are essential not only in engineering roles, but across a wide variety of naval careers.

The response from students was overwhelmingly positive. Many found the activities both exciting and eye-opening, gaining a new appreciation for how science can be applied in unexpected ways. One Year 8 student remarked, “I didn’t know science could be used like that—being an engineer could be a fun job to have!” Another said, “It made me think differently about what I might want to do in the future.”

Events like this are a valuable reminder of how powerful real-world engagement can be in shaping students’ aspirations. Through connecting the curriculum to tangible career pathways, we aim to help every student see the relevance of what they learn - and imagine themselves in roles they might not have considered before.

We extend our thanks to the Royal Navy for delivering such an inspiring and energetic day, and we look forward to continuing to offer similar opportunities that bring learning to life.