Students from the Academy of St Francis of Assisi (ASFA) recently put to use their science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) skills in a day of activities held at Liverpool John Moore’s University (LJMU). Andrew Wright reports.

A group of students from the Kensington school attended the Liverpool STEM challenge day to take part in science, maths and technology based activities.

Working in small groups, students faced challenges that presented situations they may be faced with in a future STEM-based career.

Careers in robotics, medicine and criminal investigation were explored with teams being asked to programme robots, diagnose medical conditions and create a criminal e-fit using the latest police technology.

In the final challenge of the day, students were given the task of creating a race car using a variety of parts, elastic bands and a battery pack.

The day gave students a practical insight into the world of STEM, equating how STEM subjects are used in real life settings.

Students were also given a look inside LJMU, allowing them an insight into university life.

Tracey Greenough, Head of School, says: “The Academy is dedicated to setting its students up for life after school and events like the STEM Challenge help to promote the many career options available.

“The students were a real asset to the academy and I hope that they took away some great skills that can be used both in the classroom and later in life.”