Believe it or not, the summer holidays are already over, and everyone is back to school – and back to reality! Hopefully you’re feeling refreshed and are raring to go for the new term. What better way to kick things off than by setting up a science club to get your students excited about the wonders of STEM? If you’re not sure how to start a science club, or are curious about what the benefits are, don't worry – we’re here to help!

1. Science clubs encourage scientific understanding

A school science club is an ideal setting for enhancing STEM learning and building a lifelong love of science in your students. Whether they struggle a little in science class, or are huge science fans who want to find out more, science clubs create a fun, friendly, informal environment for students to get to grips with the STEM curriculum through hands-on activities. Need ideas for some science club activities? Take a look at our blog post of science week activities, packed full of ideas and resources which could be used year-round!

2. Science clubs make science fun

Science clubs are the ideal environment to show young people that science isn’t all about memorising facts and figures thought up by dry grown-ups hundreds of years ago – it’s about the excitement of exploration, experimentation and discovery! Students can learn about the link between science and creativity, thinking outside the box and making discoveries of their own! At Braintastic! Science, we love to show young people the joy of STEM through our interactive workshops and live shows, which combine evidence-based science with fun, engaging, exciting activities and demonstrations. Why not invite one or more of our expert presenters to run some workshops at your science club?

3. Science clubs foster friendships

Studies show that science clubs are a great place for students to make and spend time with friends. Being part of a smaller group with shared interests and opportunities for collaborating and teamwork can encourage shyer students to socialise with peers, and break down boundaries between different social groups. There’s nothing better than having fun and making discoveries with your friends!

4. Science clubs help students develop skills for life

There are so many transferrable skills to learn at a science club. Besides the different skills needed to plan, design and conduct experiments, students will learn teamwork, leadership, communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These are all great for CVs and job or university applications, as well as helping students in all aspects of their future lives.

5. Science clubs smash stereotypes

Joining a science club allows students to discover the incredible diversity of the world of STEM. By learning about different corners of the field, meeting and listening to speakers and expert guests (such as the amazing women and LGBTQ+ presenters from Braintastic! Science) and spending time with other young science lovers, students can challenge the stereotype that scientists are all stern, middle-class, middle-aged white men in lab coats. If you want to find out more about some amazing, inspirational scientists, take a look at our posts for Ada Lovelace Day and Black History Month, exploring brilliant women and Black people in science.