STEMNET Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Network

Hyde Community College is committed to the progress of their students and enhancing their experiences outside the classroom. For the past four years the Design and Technology department has held an annual ‘Dragons Day Challenge’ and has tried to focus on pushing the STEM initiative through this.

The day consists of taking year 7 students off timetable and arranging an exciting and stimulating super learning day which is focused on a 'design and make' activity. However, this also encourages students to apply PLTS (personal, learning and thinking skills) such as; team work, creative thinking, self-management, reflective learning and effective participation. Students are spilt into groups of six and are given a challenge to answer a specific design task.

This year the Design and Technology department set up the task of ‘Housing of the Future for the slums in Mumbai’. Students had to produce a model and presentation which was then pitched to a panel and prizes were awarded for the winning group. Students had to produce a final high quality model of their idea, along with costing, business model, materials and construction. They had to consider how their idea affected the environment and the types of power/energy used. This year they also gained support from two STEM Ambassadors with the assistance of MOSI. The ambassadors gave a small presentation about their jobs and their career paths before then sitting on the 'Dragon's' panel.

One STEM Ambassador commented, "It really was good to see all of the students working together and coming up with some interesting ideas and designs."

Nitesh Joshi, Design and Technology teacher, commented, "The day was a huge success, as it has been for the past four years. Students are always engaged and excited to present to the Dragons...This type of activity really does tick all the boxes in enhancing students learning and promoting the STEM initiative."