Year 5 pupils were fully immersed in hands-on learning this week as they explored engineering and programming during an exciting technology lesson using LEGO.
As part of the lesson, the girls were challenged to design, build, and program a helicopter to help Maria reach the top of Spike Mountain. Working collaboratively in small groups, pupils experimented with starting and stopping helicopter rotors, testing tilt‑activated movements, and refining their designs through trial and error.
Creativity and problem‑solving were on full display as groups began to upgrade their helicopters. Some teams added motorised tail rotors to improve stability and control, while others explored gearing systems to increase the speed of the main rotors. Pupils evaluated their designs, made adjustments, and tested improvements, gaining a deeper understanding of how mechanical components and coding work together.
The lesson provided a valuable opportunity for the pupils to develop key STEM skills, including critical thinking, collaboration, resilience, and computational thinking – all while engaging in purposeful, hands‑on learning. The enthusiasm and confidence shown throughout the session highlighted just how powerful practical technology lessons can be.
At Burgess Hill Girls, we are passionate about encouraging girls to explore STEM subjects and to see themselves as future engineers, designers, and innovators. Lessons like this help pupils build confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning through real‑world challenges.
Interested in seeing our STEM and technology learning in action?
We warmly welcome prospective families to visit the school and experience our lessons first‑hand. Please get in touch to book a visit and discover how we inspire creativity, problem‑solving, and a lifelong love of learning.
