14 Oct '14

STEM academies promote science and tech among youngsters

Summary

The STEM Platform, launched eight months ago to get school students interested in science and technology, has set up 300 programmes that have drawn 4,000 youngsters

 

Flemish Science Week kicks off on Monday

Eight months after the STEM academies were launched, about 300 initiatives have been set up across Flanders, with more than 4,000 school students participating. The STEM Platform, launched earlier this year, is an independent group of experts that advises the government of Flanders and its STEM steering committee on the action plan to encourage students to enrol in studies in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The announcement was made yesterday in the run-up to the region’s Science Week from 20 to 24 October, when students from primary and secondary schools are invited to universities, colleges and knowledge centres for interactive programmes on research taking place.

According to the STEM Platform, almost one-quarter of the 308 Flemish municipalities now have a STEM academy. A STEM academy is a network of organisations that organise after-school activities around science and tech for children and youngsters up to 18 years old.

Youngsters can, for example, programme their own games, design their own robots or work with 3D printers at a STEM academy. The Technopolis hands-on science and technology centre in Mechelen has been founding a network of STEM academies since the launch.

“Children who like to do sports, go to sports clubs at the weekend,” said the STEM Platform in a statement. “Youngsters with a talent and passion for science, mathematics and technology didn’t have many possibilities to do something like this in their free time, but the STEM academies have changed this.”

Photo by William Hoogteyling/De Standaard

The STEM Platform, launched eight months ago to get school students interested in science and technology, has set up 300 programmes that have drawn 4,000 youngsters.

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Educational system

The Flemish educational system is divided into two levels: primary (age six to 12) and secondary school (12 to 18). Education is compulsory for children between the ages of six and 18.
Types - There are three educational networks in Flanders: the Flemish Community’s GO! network, and publicly funded education – either publicly or privately run.
Not enough space - In recent years, Flemish schools have been struggling with persistent teacher shortages and a growing lack of school spaces.
No tuition fees - Nursery, primary and secondary school are free in Flanders.
1

million school-going children in 2013

30

million euros Flemish education budget for new school infrastructures in 2013

11

percent of boys leaving secondary school without a diploma

  • Education in Flanders
  • Secondary education reform
  • European Encyclopaedia on National Education Systems

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