First Ofqual-recognised primary steam qualification Co-developed by steam team
We’re proud to have developed and delivered the UK’s first Ofqual-recognised primary STEAM teaching qualification, alongside the Arts, Design and Media Faculty.
The pioneering initiative, supported by the Millennium Point Trust, aims to revolutionise primary education by integrating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) practice into the curriculum and encouraging the development of transferable skills and critical thinking abilities.
The new qualification equips primary school teachers with advanced skills in areas such as CAD, 3D printing, and robotics in an innovative learning environment, with the aim of bringing design thinking and problem-solving to the forefront of primary education. The qualification, set to launch nationally next year, will support Primary schools in leading future STEAM practice.
“The project aims to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers” said Alexa Hartwell, Head of STEAM Academy Innovation and Development at STEAMhouse: “We want to equip teachers with the skills to explore technologies of the future by taking a transformative step in integrating interdisciplinary and creative thinking into primary education”.
The qualification was initially trialled through a series of partnerships with 12 primary schools across Birmingham, Sandwell, and Dudley delivered by academics from BCU.
Teachers received training from industry experts on how to lead interdisciplinary projects, integrate cutting-edge technology, and apply human-centred design thinking in their classrooms.
“Fostering creativity at a young age is important for driving economic growth, developing our creative industries and preparing students for jobs for the future” said Sara Harris, Deputy Dean, Faculty of Arts, Design and Media, Birmingham City University.
“STEAM thinking is a way to re-imagine the curriculum, particularly through encouraging teachers to apply art and design to STEM subjects. In the workplace, experts from multiple fields are required to work together, we believe this should also be reflected in education system.”
Taking part in the pilot scheme, Kyle Lewis, Assistant Head, Parkfield Community School in Birmingham hopes the training will “help create the problem solvers of tomorrow”.
“STEAM thinking has helped our pupils realise all the different ways their ideas can affect the world around them, giving them a sense of wonder and excitement. We really believe in fostering a culture that encourages young people to become innovative thinkers and makers.”
Abigail Vlahakis, CEO Millennium Point Trust, who are funding the development of the qualification, added: “We are excited to be working with STEAMhouse to develop this new STEAM teaching qualification for primary school teachers. STEAM education is an important part of children’s development, helping them to better understand and engage with the world around them.
“Teachers have an essential role in this, and the resulting qualification will enable them to inspire the next generation of innovators, scientists, and engineers. We intend for this project to be a catalyst for change, establishing STEAM as a key aspect of the syllabus and highlighting the exciting careers that it can lead to.”
To register your interest in the qualification, please email Alexa Hartwell on alexa.hartwell@bcu.ac.uk or call: 0121 202 8410
