the-BA : Get Set!

A water rocket team from the Science and Engineering Clubs project.

The practicalities – some questions to start you off:

1. How many leaders do we need? Minimum of 2 but the more the better, can you get help from Universities, Sixth Form students, Industry? Contact your local SETPOINT for guidance if necessary.

2. When shall we meet? Usually after school or at lunch; Saturdays could be good as they allow parents to be involved. Pick a day when the club will clash with the least school activities.

3. How long should the Club meet for? Between 60 and 90 minutes is ideal. Although some clubs meet for 45 minutes at lunchtime. Remember to leave time for tidying up!

4. Where should we meet? A science lab, a normal classroom or a DT classroom or lab could be used. Think about what you might do – are you allowed food in the science lab? You might need outside space or to use a school hall for some activities.

5. Who should we invite to join? Most clubs have between 10 and 30 members. Think about difference in abilities of year groups. Do you want to target: Gifted and talented pupils? Underachievers? Anyone?

6. How do we advertise the Club? Posters, individual letters to pupils, a demonstration in assembly, school newsletter. Have a clear application process – clubs can be popular and have to start a waiting list.

7. What equipment will we need? Get school lab technicians involved, buy your own club resources and store them separately, start with simple activities using few resources until you can build up a stock.

8. How much will it cost? Depends what you do! Lots of clubs spend around £100 per year. If you need money, think about applying for grants, doing fundraising activities or perhaps your group could perform a science show and charge the audience.

9. What paperwork is needed? Think about – registration forms, risk assessments, photo permission – get advice from your school or local authority. It’s a good idea to keep session plans on file as then can be used again in subsequent years and save on planning time.

10. What type of Club? General science and engineering club? Focused on one thing: Chemistry, biology, space, robotics etc? Theme – pick a theme for a number of weeks then change e.g. forensics, rockets, health, sustainability, archaeology? Pupil-led – let your members choose what you do?

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