Fairfield pupils’ success in 3M STEM challenge

Fairfield was announced as the winner of the ‘Canyon Crossing’ challenge, part of the annual 3M Young Innovators Challenge Awards, at a ceremony held at Loughborough College recently.

Young Innovators, sponsored by science-based technology company 3M and supported by the Loughborough Echo and the Loughborough Learning Alliance, engages schoolchildren through a series of practical, theoretical and creative challenges designed to help them view science, engineering, technology and maths (STEM) as dynamic and inspiring subjects which can lead to rewarding and fulfilling careers.

Fifty-five teams took part in the Canyon Crossing challenge, which required them to design, build and test a bridge able to hold 10 kilos. Entries were judged by 3M’s Chris Bishop and Dr Lewis Jones from Loughborough University.

Fairfield pupil, Ivan, thought ‘outside the box’, creating a knitted rope bridge which made it through to the final six before being announced as the winner on the night. Ivan received a certificate from Education Minister, Nicky Morgan, a £50 gift voucher and £750 of Lego or K.Nex construction equipment for the school.

There was also success for Ailith and for ‘The Convert Collection’ team of Alani, Grace and Molly in the Eco Tech Challenge, where teams were asked to design items for the garden or clothing and accessories made from recycled materials. Ailith was runner-up with her knitted grey and pink clutch bag and purse, while The Convert Collection’s three recycled material dresses were Highly Commended. The girls each received a £25 gift voucher.

Congratulations to them and all our Canyon Crossing and Eco Challenge entrants for representing the school superbly.