STEAM 2024, organised by ACS International Schools gave 10,000 children a day of study and career possibilities and brilliant theme-park action

ACS International Schools returned to Thorpe Park, Surrey in mid-October for STEAM 2024, its second fun and information-packed showcase of science, tech, engineering and arts (STEAM) possibilities.

The sold-out event saw 10,000 primary and secondary school pupils join some 50 partners of ACS International Schools, including Barclays and Microsoft. Other organisations attending on the day included Surrey Police, Royal Air Force and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Children joined workshops and activities designed to inspire interest, and perhaps also potential future study and career pathways.

A C S Partnership Steam General
Children could gain ‘stamps’ to ride the attractions when they attended specific workshops and events – a memorable way to combine useful study and career information with adrenalin-fuelled fun

The choice of the venue – Thorpe Park – added to the fun, since many students may not have been to a theme park, raising excitement levels. It also tapped into the power of ‘gamification’ within education, giving children alternative perspectives on what the world of work can be like and the exciting prospects to do the things they love.

Of course, after all the STEAM opportunities, the dealmaker was the opportunity to enjoy Thorpe Park’s rollercoasters and attractions – tickets to ride were gained by attending specific activities and workshops where they could gather knowledge and ‘earn’ stamps redeemable against rides and activities.   

 “The aim of the event is to inspire the next generation,” says Graeme Lawrie MBE, Partnerships Director at ACS International Schools. “It is more essential than ever that we bridge the skills gap now to ensure young people have access to these opportunities. A big thank you goes out to all of our partners and staff at ACS International Schools for making it happen.”

ACS International Schools acs-schools.com

Further reading: School science live with the Royal Society