The fully redeveloped area includes new science labs, classrooms and an open plan learning space
This term, students and staff at Northampton Academy have been making the most of the school’s new, state-of-the-art teaching space dedicated to STEM learning.
Over the past two years, the academy has been running a successful Nucleus STEM Stream, designed to support students with an aptitude and interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Nucleus students in each year group are able to benefit from a more in-depth, advanced and faster-paced curriculum, and embrace a range of excellent co-curricular opportunities tailored to promote their interest in STEM areas. These include attending regular lectures by leading university academics and visiting pioneering institutions like Jodrell Bank Observatory and Bletchley Park.
This academic year, to strengthen its Nucleus provision further, Northampton Academy has unveiled a highly modern, redeveloped space entirely dedicated to STEM learning. Currently open to Year 10 students at the academy, it includes new science labs and classrooms, an open plan learning area, an updated Design Technology provision, as well as an IT suite. In the future, the facilities will be opened up to Nucleus students across the school, as well as pupils in the local community as part of the Academy’s primary school outreach work.
Likewise, for its older students, the Academy is in its second year of running Nucleus VI – a Sixth Form medical specialism for students who aspire to have a career in medicine. Through the programme, Sixth Formers take part in work experience, university visits, volunteering at a local care home and have special coaching for their medical school entry exams. Since its launch, the programme has proved successful with the first cohort of students recently submitting their university applications to study medicine.
Providing students with access to opportunities like this, where they can nurture their interests, develop new skills and work towards high aspirations is all part of how the academy delivers an Education with Character.
Phil Swallow, Assistant Principal at Northampton Academy and Nucleus project leader said:
“It became clear at the inception of this project that our students deserved a specialist area designed around science and technology, where they can develop their interests. We’re therefore delighted that this redevelopment is complete and has opened for our students’ benefit.”
Chris Clyne, Principal at Northampton Academy, said:
"The students in our Year 10 bubble who are currently enjoying this space are delighted with it and we can’t wait till we can open up this area more widely. We would, of course, like to thank The Bernard Sunley Foundation, The Tice Foundation, The George Foundation headed up by our chair of governors Michael George, and The Thomas White's Foundation Charity, without whom this development would not have been possible.”
“Having this state-of-the-art STEM teaching space really will enable us to continue to grow the Nucleus programme in school, within the local community and beyond. We’re very excited about the plans we’re developing for its future."
The academy looks forward to holding a formal opening of the area in the future.