Year 2 STEM week 2026

9th June 2026E Jones

Last week, we explored the journey of energy. We found out where energy comes from; how it is stored and distributed; and ways in which energy is used. We used the Lego Essentials kits to make models including a radar and an excavation cave. We then used the Spike app to explore coding to make parts of a model move, light up and make a sound.

We applied what we learnt to make our own excavation site model with a moving element using a motor. Using the Spike app, we used icon blocks or word blocks to program our hub. We then had the opportunity to share our ideas with other children.

During the week, we learnt about First Lego League’s core values and considered ways we’d demonstrated teamwork, inclusion, impact, discovery, innovation whilst having fun!

Y4 STEM Week

2nd April 2026jpowell

This week, the children have been exploring the exciting world of archaeology through their FIRST LEGO League Explore project. They have learned how archaeologists investigate the past by carefully digging, observing layers of soil, and discovering artifacts. The children developed their understanding of how important it is to handle findings gently and record information to learn about history.

Through building their LEGO model, they have used their creativity and problem-solving skills to design an archaeological dig site, including tools and technologies that can help with exploration. They have also learned how science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) are used together in real-life situations.

The children worked collaboratively as a team, sharing ideas, taking turns, and supporting one another. They practiced listening and respecting different viewpoints, making sure everyone was included. Throughout the week, they showed enthusiasm and curiosity, asking questions and enjoying the process of discovery.

Overall, the children have not only gained knowledge about archaeology and STEM, but also strengthened their teamwork, communication, and confidence.

Y6F visit to Harton Academy

10th March 2026D Fawkes

Y6F had the opportunity to visit Harton Academy last week to take part in a DT workshop where they used computer software to design a keyring and they also saw the laser cutter which created their designs. The children had a great afternoon and worked very well.

iBelong Cyber Event

14th October 2025L Forster

5 children from Year 6 were selected to take part in the iBelong Cyber event at the Word to take part in some workshops around e-Safety.

In our first session, we worked with Alan from the DSIT (Department of Science, Innovation and Technology) looking at trust when online. We discussed different people (like doctors or teachers) and why we trust them, and how we trust information from different sources. Looking at AI and machine based learning, we learned about data sets through the game ‘Quick Draw‘ and how computers learn from lots of pieces of similar data. He also learned about key signs to look for with regards to phishing (scamming emails, texts, calls and websites wanting to steal details/information) situations.

Our next session was about ‘Digital Footprints from a Gaming View’ – the marks we leave online – from Digital Safety. We looked at ‘gamertags’, as this is the first thing people see when we engage online. We learned that it is important that these are anonymous and hide our personal information. We then took part in a ‘password cracker’ activity – trying to guess someone’s password. Next we tried to create a new stronger password for the character.

After lunch, we had our final session about ‘Staying safe on Roblox’. We looked into cybersecurity, and how we keep ourselves safe online. Again (similar to the last session) we looked at the importance of secure passwords and what we should be sharing online. Discussing scenarios, we looked at what to do when people contact you unsolicited or offering ‘too good to be true’ situations – highlighting the reject and report buttons.

 

We ended the day looking at impersonation and identity theft, thinking about how we’d feel if someone had been impersonating us online. Using Mentimeter, we took part in polls to assess our understanding of the themes of today.

Overall, the children were given a refresh of how they can make themselves more safe when setting up accounts or navigating the online world.

A busy time in Y2A!

15th July 2025Emma Adams

We have had a busy couple of weeks in Y2A! We loved taking part in a workshop with Richard as part of our history topic, Great Fires. We have been comparing the Great Fire of London in 1666 to the blaze that struck Gateshead and Newcastle in 1854. Today in our history lesson, we used artefacts to tell the story of the fire and how it spread across the River Tyne. We had a wonderful time taking part in sports day, thanks for all of your support! Last week, as part of our STEM week we enjoyed building our lego project ‘submerged’. We designed and constructed a new marine creature and habitat and also a vehicle to enable scientists to discovered it. We coded our builds to allow them to move and light up. 

 

 

E-Safety Information – AI Enabled Scams

9th July 2025L Forster

AI can be an amazing tool for education and creativity – sadly, it’s also become a tool for online scammers  This week’s #WakeUpWednesday guide shines a light on the dark side of using AI, including phishing emails, fake voice calls, and influencer-based frauds targeting younger users ⚠️

From deepfake videos to romance scams powered by chatbots  the tactics are getting more convincing – and the consequences more serious. If you’re looking to help children and young people navigate the online world with confidence and caution, this guide offers key insights and practical advice to keep them safe ️

AI isn’t just transforming the way we learn and work, it’s also reshaping the tactics scammers use online. From generating convincing phishing emails to fabricating influencer videos, criminals are using AI to make their scams more convincing than ever. Young people, who often embrace new tech quickly, can be especially vulnerable.

This guide highlights several AI-enabled dangers – including romance scams, deepfake audio and video impersonations, and fake job offers – and explains how to spot and report them. With clear tips for verifying content, thinking critically, and using trusted platforms, it’s essential reading for parents and educators to help young people stay one step ahead of the scammers.

https://nationalcollege.com/

E-Safety Information – YouTube Kids

18th June 2025L Forster

YouTube Kids is designed to be the safer cousin of the regular YouTube app; however, built-in risks continue to pose concerns  From targeted advertising to addictive design, there’s more going on behind the scenes than many realise. This week’s #WakeUpWednesday guide breaks it all down.

 

Whether it’s inappropriate content slipping past filters or tech-savvy kids bypassing parental settings, YouTube Kids still needs careful oversight. Our guide provides clear, easy-to-follow tips to help adults keep young users protected while still enjoying their favourite videos 

YouTube Kids promises a safe, child-centric experience with colourful visuals, age-filtered content, and robust parental controls. Designed to appeal to younger viewers, the app has grown rapidly, being used by tens of millions of children worldwide. But is it as safe as it seems?

Despite YouTube Kids’ safeguards, reports have highlighted worrying issues, such as inappropriate content slipping through filters, subtle advertising, and the use of manipulative design to keep children engaged. Our guide explores how to navigate these pitfalls, offering practical advice for making sure children get the most from the platform – without the risks.

https://nationalcollege.com/

E-Safety Information – Generative AI Safety

11th June 2025L Forster

Generative AI can be a brilliant tool for creativity and learning  – but it’s not without its hazards. With 3 in 4 pupils now using generative AI (up from just 2 in 5 last year!), it’s more important than ever for parents and educators to understand the risks ⚡

This week’s free #WakeUpWednesday guide breaks down the key safety concerns around generative AI tools and offers expert advice for keeping young users safe. From encouraging critical thinking to safeguarding their privacy, find out how to help children use AI safely and smartly 

The remarkable growth of generative AI tools like ChatGPT has opened up exciting new opportunities for young learners. Used wisely, AI can be a powerful ally in boosting creativity, learning and problem-solving skills. However, without proper guidance, young people may stumble into challenges including inaccurate information, data security risks, and a growing reliance on AI over their own critical thinking.

From setting clear usage boundaries to teaching digital hygiene and promoting independent thought, this guide offers parents and educators practical advice on the safe, positive use of AI. With the right understanding and guidance, you can ensure that generative AI becomes a positive influence, rather than a potential pitfall in young people’s digital lives.

https://nationalcollege.com/

Reception STEM Week

7th June 2025D Wilkinson

This week Reception had lots of fun designing and creating ocean vehicles.  We talked about the variety of jobs people do around the ocean. We showed fantastic teamwork, and improved our thinking and problem solving skills.  We also learned lots of interesting facts about how to keep our oceans safe for all living things. Look at some of our amazing creations!!!

E-Safety Information – Emojis

4th June 2025L Forster

They say a picture’s worth a thousand words and when it comes to emojis, that’s often true  But in the wrong context, these innocent-seeming icons can take on a whole new meaning, sometimes hinting at things that aren’t as light-hearted as they appear.

This week’s #WakeUpWednesday guide breaks down some of the slang and symbols young people use online and explains how some could be masking real issues, from bullying and exclusion to harmful behaviours. With our handy cheat sheet and top tips, adults can keep pace with this ever-changing digital language ✨

Emojis aren’t just digital decoration — they’re often used as a coded language that young people use to express identity, humour and emotion. Without context, they can easily be misunderstood by adults, leading to confusion or missed signals. Some emojis may even mask risky behaviours or emotional struggles.

This guide helps decode this ever-evolving language, empowering parents and educators to have more open, informed conversations with the children in their care. It also highlights the meaning of some common emojis and offers practical tips for staying clued-in without snooping or suspicion.

https://nationalcollege.com/