What is STEM?

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It encourages pupils to think outside the box. At BSS, we believe that that discovery is often found where different subjects overlap and develop the skills we believe will help create successful 21st Century citizens – flexibility, critical thinking, creativity, and communication. The opportunities of tomorrow may not have yet been realised. Science and technology continue to move rapidly and we, want to develop the skills your child needs to succeed in the 21st century.

STEM at BSS

Traditionally, Science and technology are taught separately. At BSS, pupils are encouraged to make connections between the different subjects and use the transferable skills they discover.

Science:

• Taught through the International Primary Years curriculum up to Gr 4
• Is taught as a subject from Gr 5 – Gr 8.
• From Gr 9, pupils have the opportunity to study Chemistry, Physics, and Biology, with the possibility of Environmental Management (EM)(IGCSE) and Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS)(IBDP)
• Use of a laboratory for practical experiments and work
• The use of technology overlaps here as the pupils use this in their research and presentations.

Technology:

• BSS is the first Digital School in Bulgaria to introduce iPads in Education.
• Two specialist ICT labs: one with PC and one with Mac computers.
• Develop the skills they need to use digital tools in an informed and effective way.
• Students are exposed to computer technology from Gr 1.
• In Gr 9 pupils take ICT as an IGCSE subject
• In Gr 11 pupils take ITGS (Information Technology in a Global Society)
• Technology is seen as an extension and enhancement to learning
• Digital drawing is also offered as an ECA

Engineering:

• Skills developed in Maths and Science can be transferred and used in this area
• We provide a fun, engaging, and hands-on opportunities to explore and experience this part of STEM.
• Grade 1-4 students work on an Educational Lego (Design and Technology)
• Grades 5-8 learn Robotics (including programming and working with the iPads)

Mathematics:

• This a core subject throughout the school and can be used in all the areas of STEM.

By integrating these elements, students are able to make connections, transfer knowledge and be innovative in their thinking.