Science comes to life at Kimbolton School as pupils celebrate inspiring KSTEM Week
by
Kimbolton School
Kimbolton School’s annual KSTEM Week helped bring science, technology, engineering and maths to life between Monday, 3 and Friday, 7 November – inspiring pupils across both the Prep and Senior Schools to explore, question and create. The week was a vibrant celebration of curiosity, creativity and discovery, featuring an array of hands-on activities and immersive experiences designed to ignite imaginations and foster a lifelong love of learning.
At Kimbolton Prep School, pupils were immersed in a diverse programme that blended excitement with education. A standout moment was a visit from the WonderDome mobile planetarium, which transported children on a breathtaking adventure through the universe. Inside the dome, pupils embarked on a presenter-led journey that linked directly to the science curriculum. From the birth of stars and the formation of planets to rocket launches and journeys to new worlds, the attention of pupils was captured from start to finish.
Another highlight for younger pupils was the Animal Encounters experience, with the chance to meet a fascinating array of creatures up close, while also learning about habitats, life cycles and conservation. The session encouraged curiosity about the natural world and a deeper appreciation for biodiversity.
The wider week-long programme also included a digital twist, with pupils having the chance to explore the world through Merge AR Cubes. Using augmented reality, they were able to hold planets, artefacts and natural wonders right in the palm of their hands. This interactive technology enabled pupils to engage with science and geography in a uniquely immersive way.
STEM themes extended beyond Science, with Mathematics and Technology lessons incorporating various special activities throughout the week. Other exciting activities included interactive magic shows and an engaging ‘Superhero’ workshop, where pupils investigated the science behind invisibility, super strength, body armour, levitation and even mind control. A ‘Magic of Elements’ show also explored the fundamental building blocks of the universe, bringing chemistry to life through spectacular demonstrations.
Meanwhile, Senior School pupils in a series of targeted STEM activities throughout the week, with a series of innovative workshops, STEM challenges and events, each designed to stretch their creativity and problem-solving skills. Highlights included, for Year 7 to Year 11, Matt Pritchard delivering year-group sessions, bringing science concepts to life through interactive demonstrations.
In the Sixth Form, pupils explored STEM themes through two specialist talks. Lower Sixth attended a lecture by Mr Dickens on the ethics of autonomous vehicles, while Upper Sixth heard from Hannah Currell and ARPAS UK on the applications and regulation of drone technology.
Will Chuter, Headteacher at Kimbolton School, added: “KSTEM Week once again highlighted our commitment to delivering an engaging, forward-thinking curriculum that celebrates innovation and inspires every pupil to explore their potential. It was wonderful to see such enthusiasm, teamwork and imagination across all ages and year groups.”
Reflecting on the week, Claire Petrie, Head of Kimbolton Prep School, said: “KSTEM Week is all about sparking curiosity and showing pupils that science and technology are not just subjects to be studied – they’re gateways to understanding the world and shaping the future. Throughout the week, our pupils further developed their teamwork, problem-solving, and creative thinking skills – all while having great fun! It was a week full of curiosity, discovery, and inspiration, encouraging a real love for STEM in all our children. A huge thank you to our visitors and to all the pupils for embracing every activity with such enthusiasm!”