Formula for a School Boffin!

By Leda Reynolds

YOUNGSTERS at a Solihull school can enjoy the appliance of science after winning a slice of a pounds 5 million grant.

St Peter’s School, in Whitefields Road, has been awarded pounds 17,000 to fund an after-school science and engineering club aimed at fostering children’s interest.

The school’s director of science, Amanda Crees, said the cash would make a real difference to the club and be used to pay for dedicated teaching.

"We will be able to support the teachers who invest their time and knowledge in inspiring our pupils about science and engineering, and we will be able to provide even more fun and exciting activities," she said.

The club was launched during National Science Week.

During the event, the school used music to explore the physics of music with experts from Cardiff University.

Pupils were also joined by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra for a workshop called Brass Explosion.

Announcing the grants, lifelong learning minister Bill Rammell said the Government placed great importance on the promotion of science.

"The clubs will open young minds to the excitement scientific knowledge can offer and to the opportunities studying these subjects can bring," he said.

"A strong supply of scientists, engineers, and technologists is essential for our future competitiveness. It is crucial young people are inspired to study science at an early age."

Any firm wanting to become involved with the club can call Barry Lewis on 07703 807 983 or e-mail barry.lewis@setnet.org.uk.

(c) 2007 Evening Mail; Birmingham (UK). Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.