Upper Wharfedale School participated in a week of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. The annual STEM Week ran from Monday, 16th March 2026 to Friday, 20th March 2026. During this time, students engaged with several visitors from across the STEM industry. These guests showcased their work and shared insights into their STEM pathways, helping students gain a broader understanding of the opportunities within these fields.
By taking part in STEM Week, students explored a wide range of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics activities designed to enhance critical thinking and inspire innovation.
Below you will see some of the content that took place across STEM Week.
Monday 16th March - Day One
On Monday 16th March, we welcomed visitors from Equans who talked with our Year 11 students about their job roles in the energy sector and what they do, it was a very informative session. We also welcomed Cpl Emily Wallace who worked with all of our Year 7 & 8 students, talking about her role as an Air and Space Operations Specialist from RAF Leeming and leading an exciting teamwork competition making Rovers made entirely from pasta! John Brewster also came in and spoke to all our KS4 students and a very engaged year 7 class about his role as an Oestopath.
Tuesday 17th March - Day Two
On Tuesday 17th March, we welcomed more visitors into school from across a range of other industries including Angela Brock, an Equine Chiropractor who talked to Year 7 & 8 students whilst demonstrating on Mrs Geldard’s very well-behaved pony and her own gorgeous cocker spaniel! We’ve also welcomed Adam Hollings who is a Senior Data Scientist from the NHS where he talked to our Year 9 students about the importance of his role, use of languages and the impact of his role in the NHS.
Key Stage 4 students had an inspiring talk and practical teamwork session from the RAF and that still doesn’t include the visits from retired electrical engineers, Veterinary and Medicine students or Jet2 pilots!
Wednesday 18th March - Day Three
On Wednesday 18 March, we welcomed 13 visitors into school, each bringing valuable insights to inspire our students.
Year 7 spent the day with the Yorkshire Dales River Trust, exploring invertebrates from a local water source at Kilnsey Park. Students were even able to witness a mayfly nymph emerging, which proved to be a particularly memorable moment.
Students also attended engaging talks from a Zoo Veterinary Pathologist and from Kat Bowers of OS Maps, who provided an informative session on mapping and outdoor exploration.
An electrical engineer shared the story of a career that began in the coal mines and progressed to working with machinery across the world.
A former pupil returned to speak about their path into stage management, offering inspiration to many of our creative students.
Two dedicated members of our school community continued their excellent work with Years 7 and 8, helping students deepen their understanding of local wildlife and geology.
A local engineer challenged Year 9 pupils with hands‑on STEM rover‑building activities.
Matt and Phil delivered informative presentations to Years 7–10 about their careers in civil engineering.
Finally, two NHS volunteers led interactive sessions on pathology and sampling, giving students meaningful insight into medical science.
Thursday 19th March - Day Four
Neil Hunter from JBA Consulting delivered two insightful talks on flood and risk management for Years 9 and 10.
The NHS returned to school to lead three practical, hands‑on sessions for all students in Year 7 and Year 9.
Biomedical student Amy Tullett delivered an engaging, escape‑room‑style workshop focused on major scientific discoveries.
Former pupil Steph Roe spoke to several classes about Sports Nutrition and shared her professional journey in the field.
Former pupil Bradley Smith inspired students with his commitment to environmental issues and his ongoing work in the sector.
Andrew Coope (OBE) motivated Years 7 and 8 with stories from his varied career and his resilience‑focused approach to overcoming challenges.
It was another excellent day filled with inspiration, curiosity, and STEM brought to life for our students.
Friday 20th March - Day Five
Friday 20th March, our final day of STEM Week.
Year 7 were introduced to an advanced robotic dog, giving them the opportunity to learn about coding, programming, and facial‑recognition technology. This session was extremely well‑received by students.
Years 8 and 9 attended a talk from Eli Ward, whose inspiring personal background prompted a wide range of thoughtful and engaging questions from pupils.
Two visiting medical doctors also provided valuable insights into careers in STEM:
- Dr Laura Squire delivered an inspiring session for both staff and students, sharing her professional journey.
- Dr Will Askew offered Years 9 and 11 a rare and insightful look into the daily work of an NHS GP. He also discussed his role as a genetics specialist with Natural England, responding to numerous insightful questions from students.
