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Igniting a passion for discovery
This is where curiosity meets innovation! The DSK’s brand new STEM Centre is a dynamic space where our learners dive into the fascinating worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
We have created a vibrant environment where learners can explore, experiment, and excel in STEM subjects. Whether they are budding scientists, aspiring engineers, or simply love to tinker and explore, our centre is designed to help them thrive.
STEM at the DSK: A journey into discovery
At the DSK, STEM is more than just a curriculum—we want it to be an adventure. Our unique approach to STEM education is anchored by four guiding principles:
- Stay curious: We ignite a lifelong passion for inquiry, encouraging learners to explore the unknown and fuel their thirst for knowledge.
- Think outside the box: Critical thinking and creativity are at the core of our STEM curriculum. We empower learners to approach problems with innovative solutions and fresh perspectives.
- Experience the power: Learning comes alive through hands-on projects and real-world applications.
- The Magic of STEM: STEM is not just about facts and formulas; it’s about discovering the magic in the world around us. We love to celebrate the moments when theory meets reality and imagination turns into innovation.
What learners will find here
- Modern labs: We have the latest tools and technology, giving learners the chance to get hands-on with their learning.
- Exciting projects: From building robots to solving real-world challenges during Project Week, our learners are always up to something.
- Collaborative learning: With a team of passionate teachers who speak both English and German, we aim to make learning fun, interactive, and relevant to today’s world.
- A community of innovators: Our STEM Committee, made up of teachers, parents, school management, and board members, works together to ensure our centre is a place where ideas flourish and students are inspired.
Meet our STEM leaders
Leading our STEM programme is Astrid Schreier, a dedicated German Biology and Chemistry teacher with over 25 years of experience. Astrid’s enthusiasm for science is contagious, and under her guidance, our learners are not just learning—they are innovating.
As STEM Coordinator at the DSK, Astrid oversees a team of about twenty dedicated English and German-speaking science teachers across various STEM subjects. She leads regular workshops with other teachers to discuss STEM matters and plan projects, ensuring a cohesive and dynamic approach to STEM education.
Under her close guidance, the multi-stakeholder STEM Committee, which includes members of the board, school management, parents, and teacher representatives, plays a pivotal role in driving the DSK’s vision of becoming a leading STEM-focused school.
STEM through the years
For many years, the DSK has proudly offered a wide range of STEM activities in both the German and English streams. Our commitment to STEM begins early:
- Primary School: Learners are introduced to the wonders of robotics and science through engaging extramural activities.
- Middle School: The curriculum expands to include Mathematics, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry, in accordance with the timetable for German Schools abroad. In grades 5 and 6, the SciTec subject introduces learners to the basics of information technology and methodology, laying a strong foundation for future learning.
- High School: As learners progress, they can choose from Maths, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as exam subjects for the Abitur. These subjects provide the knowledge and skills necessary for further studies or careers in the natural sciences.
What our STEM learners get up to
The STEM Centre serves as a vibrant hub for a wide range of activities where learners engage with STEM subjects in meaningful ways, fostering curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong passion for learning. Here are some of the exciting activities our students are involved in:
- STEM-focused outings: Learners visit places like the Two Oceans Aquarium, the Cape Town Science Centre, the Planetarium, or the West Coast Fossil Park, connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences.
- Innovative projects: From Grade 5 SciTec bridges to Chemistry atomic models, our learners‘ projects are proudly displayed throughout the school, showcasing their creativity and understanding.
- Competitions: Our learners participate in exciting competitions like the Kangaroo Maths competition, the SA Mathematics Challenge, and the Diercke Geography competition, making STEM fun and engaging.
- Eco Rangers programme: For our environmental enthusiasts, the “Eco Rangers” programme in Grade 7 offers a chance to contribute ideas and engage in environmental stewardship.
- Annual STEM project day: Held every year, this day encourages learners to think outside the box, with recent activities focused on World Ocean Day, supported by our partner, the Sentinel Ocean Alliance (SOA).
Looking forward
In 2024, our primary focus is on optimising the use of our STEM Centre, integrating new technologies, and fostering a culture of scientific curiosity among our students. We aim to enhance our curriculum with hands-on competitions and strengthen collaboration within our teaching teams. Additionally, we are expanding our external partnerships with organisations like SOA, FESTO, and CTSC to provide enriched learning experiences for our learners.
Looking ahead to 2025, we plan to further refine our STEM teaching methods and broaden our extracurricular offerings. We are excited to introduce initiatives such as a compulsory school expo for Grade 8 or 9 students, where they can consolidate and present their scientific knowledge. To maintain and increase learner engagement, we are also exploring a points/reward system to encourage continuous involvement in STEM activities, ensuring that every learner can discover and nurture their passion for science throughout their school journey.
Discover STEM at the DSK
Come and see what makes the DSK STEM Centre so special! Whether you are a parent, a learner or an alumni, we invite you to explore our centre and experience the excitement of STEM learning. We are not just preparing learners for the future – we are helping them shape it.
Get involved
Join us on this exciting journey! Whether you are interested in donating, partnering with us, enrolling, volunteering, or just want to check out what we are up to, we would love to hear from you.
Contact us: stemcentre@dsk.co.za
