STEM Clubs

STEM Clubs are an initiative started in 2022, by the Western Cape Education Department and the Cape Town Science Centre to encourage learners from Grades 4 – 12 to engage with STEM activities in an informal setting so that they learn about STEM while playing and ultimately choose a STEM career.

Enthusiastic and dedicated teachers are trained and given resources to jumpstart their STEM Clubs. The resources include a detailed Teacher Manual which guides them on all aspects of managing a STEM Club, a roll of STEM and Career posters to use for publicity of the club, career expos and more, and a large Kit (crate) full of sustainable STEM Club activities which can be used by multiple groups during the year.

Most of our learners have never had the opportunity to be involved in any after-school activities (usually known as extramural activities in South Africa) and being involved in a STEM Club gives them the chance to extend their knowledge, hone their skills and challenge themselves. Learners are encouraged to take on the leadership role at the STEM Club meetings while working in collaborative teams. They plan the activities for future meetings. They are encouraged to challenge themselves while participating in at least two competitions in a year.