During STEM Week, Year 1 had a fantastic time exploring LEGO while learning about energy. We discovered what energy is, how we use it in our everyday lives, and how it helps make things work. We identified different energy sources in our local area before using LEGO to build our own energy stations with power supplies. Finally, we used our imaginations to think about how we might power objects in the future, coming up with lots of creative and innovative ideas!
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!
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 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.
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.
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!!!
This week, our Year 3 students dove headfirst into the world of STEM and coding!
As part of STEM Week, our young engineers not only built innovative LEGO models to solve real-world problems, but also explored the basics of coding, bringing their creations to life using simple programming tools. They were able to make their models make sounds, light up and move. They learned how to sequence commands, use logic to solve challenges, and work as a team to create a team poster. The children should be proud of their teamwork, innovation and hard work!
Year 3 are excited to dive into STEM week with this year’s theme: Submerged! We are getting ready to explore the mysteries beneath the surface as we build, create, and learn about the fascinating world of underwater exploration. With teamwork, imagination, and plenty of LEGO bricks, we will investigate real-world challenges faced in deep-sea environments. Stay tuned as we embark on this exciting journey beneath the waves!
We are incredibly proud of our 2024-2025 Harton Primary Puzzlers team, who represented the borough at the First Lego League national competition in Harrogate on Saturday 3rd May. Throughout the day, the children were commended for their enthusiasm, brilliant teamwork and excellent communication! They wowed the judges as well as other competitors with their ground-breaking project idea of the Tyne Cleanstream bubble barrier, which is designed to gently redirect plastic into a container unit using a curtain of bubbles. During the award ceremony, the Harton Primary Puzzlers were announced as the first place winners for the Innovation Project Award for going above and beyond with their idea and their research! The Puzzlers are the first team in South Tyneside to have received one of the top awards at the national competition!
Check out a lovely article from ICT in Schools about their brilliant achievement, including their excellent work on the robot game:
https://ictinschools.org/harton-primary-puzzlers-shine-at-first-lego-league-national-finals/
Y2J took a visit to our school allotment last week. We worked with Kay and Danielle from Williby Rocs to plant different seeds for us to look after and grow over the coming weeks. We helped design and create bunting to hang in the polytunnel.


















































































































































































































































































































































































