Primary school pupils blast off into science at TOAN
Primary school pupils from Oldham are participating in the Big Bang Club at E-ACT the Oldham Academy North (TOAN), engaging in weekly science workshops that include hands-on experiments like analyzing soil samples from Mars. The program, led by scientist Daniel Lay, aims to spark curiosity and a love for science. The initiative has received positive feedback from participants and teachers, with plans to expand into sports workshops in partnership with the Manchester United Foundation.
Primary school pupils across Oldham are conducting experiments in state-of-the-art laboratories at E-ACT Oldham Academy North (TOAN) through the Big Bang Club, a weekly science workshop series designed to ignite curiosity in young minds.
Years 5 and 6 students have been using real laboratory equipment under the guidance of TOAN’s scientist-in-chief Daniel Lay, with one standout activity involving analysis of soil samples supposedly sent from Mars as part of a top-secret space mission.
The programme has drawn enthusiastic responses from participating schools. Ms Snooks from Holy Cross Primary School said: “It was brilliant! Children revisited prior learning, which led nicely onto new learning at their level. They thoroughly enjoyed being ‘proper’ scientists using equipment they have never used before, as well as being given the freedom to experiment with the different samples given. It was such a well-organised event and one the children will remember for a long time.”
TOAN Headteacher Jess Giraud said: “It’s fantastic to see so many young learners coming through our doors and getting excited about science. Supporting our local primary schools is really important to us and this is a great way of giving pupils the chance to experience what secondary school learning is all about. Schools in Oldham working together can have such a positive impact, and we’re proud to be playing our part in inspiring the next generation of students.”
Following the success of the science workshops, TOAN will launch sports workshops in partnership with the Manchester United Foundation this summer, continuing to help local pupils build confidence and prepare for secondary school.
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