Sarah Morrison
Assistant Head of School, Academics, Appleby College
In education, students sometimes get frustrated by pursuing studies that they don’t see as having long-term application in their lives. Thanks to STEM that’s all changing.
At Appleby College, the STEM approach to education fosters creativity and divergent thinking alongside fundamental disciplines. It motivates and inspires students to dream beyond the here and now.
A unique space to ideate
It’s important to empower students with the tools and learning that instill strong fundamentals and equip them with the ability to problem-solve, develop ideas, experiment, and create through iteration and trial and error.
Imagine a physical space where students come together to collaborate, design, explore, experiment, and test their ideas. Since 2016, Appleby students have enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to combine their knowledge of science, mathematics, and structures with imagination, creativity, and artistry to explore solutions to everyday problems that challenge people to think differently — all in the school’s state-of-the-art Design Lab.
“My experience in Appleby’s Design Lab has allowed me to experiment with new technologies and tools,” says Tia Rojas, a Grade 12 student. “There are more than enough resources at my disposal — 3D printers, physical materials, power tools, a laser cutter, electronics, and more — that help me transform my ideas into creations.”
More than a physical space
Through the ‘making’ component of STEM studies, the tools and resources made available enable students to develop their ideas and apply them as workable designs while collaborating, drawing inspiration, and learning from one another.
Future application
Since the school’s founding in 1911, Appleby’s mission has been to educate and enable students to become leaders of character, major contributors to, and valued representatives of their local, national, and international communities. Through STEM learning, students are acquiring the skills and knowledge to be future problem-solvers and leaders of industry.
