A Celebration of STEAM Learning in South Yorkshire

North Star Science School

North Star Science School is a one-of-a-kind event that brings together hundreds of young people from across South Yorkshire to explore the exciting world of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM).

Delivered in partnership with The Work-Wise Foundation and The 360 Degree Society, and co-founded by Professor Brian Cox CBE FRS and Lord Andrew Mawson OBE, the event is part of the national Science Summer School programme that aims to make the UK the best place to do science and engineering.

Explore our 2024 programme here and watch the film.

Why North Star Matters

The goal of North Star is simple:

To spark imagination, build skills, and open doors to future careers in STEAM.

In a region with a proud industrial heritage and is a world-leader in fields of advanced manufacturing and health science.

North Star helps young people see their place in the future of science and engineering.

Through hands-on workshops, interactive challenges, and exposure to real STEAM professionals, the event helps students:

  • Develop critical thinking and creativity

  • Understand the breadth of STEAM careers available

  • Connect their learning to real-world industry needs

  • Build confidence and ambition for the future.

Hands-On Discovery and Real Industry Challenges

Hosted at Gulliver’s Valley Theme Park, the North Star event combines a vibrant mix of inspirational talks, interactive workshops, and real-world challenges co-created by students and industry professionals.

Attendees experienced more than 25 engaging workshops, including:

  • Build a Wind Car

    Design a recycled wind-powered vehicle with E-ON & AmazeLab

  • Crazy Planes Challenge

    Design and launch aerodynamic paper planes (CBE+ & Newfield School)

  • Thermal Imaging with Chocolate

    Using smart sensors to explore heat (AMETEK Land)

  • Mechanical Seals in Action

    Hands-on engineering from AESSEAL

  • Explore the Solar System in VR

    Immersive astronomy with Space Detectives

  • Sustainability in Construction

    Design a sustainable product with ESH Group

  • Cybersecurity & Gaming Zone

    Kahoot quiz and FIFA showdown

  • Fusion Energy & The Sun Dome

    Discover the future of clean energy with UKAEA

  • Brick Making

    Hands-on material science from Ibstock PLC

  • The Art of Chocolate Making

    Edible STEM exploration from JJA Snacks

Meet the Inspirational Speaker’s We’ve Showcased

Students heard directly from world-class scientists and inventors, including:

  • Professor Brian Cox CBE FRS

    One of the UK’s most prominent science communicators, bringing the wonders of the universe to life.

  • Dr. Simon Goodwin

    Theoretical astrophysicist discussing alien life and new telescope tech.

  • Sonja Jones

    Audiologist and innovator promoting hearing health careers

  • Ruth Amos

    Award-winning inventor and YouTuber inspiring young makers through “Kids Invent Stuff”

  • Alex Gardner

    The Work-wise Foundation Associate Managing Director, Smile Business Support

Explore previous years

2023