Students tackle real-world challenges in personal projects
Somersfield Academy students are “embracing the spirit of inquiry and innovation” as part of an annual event showcasing their personal projects.
The projects by M5 students include an investigation into eating disorders; recycling plastic into 3D printing filament; and the adaptation of a hydrogenerator into a water catchment system.
The Personal Project Expo will take place in the gymnasium at the Devonshire-based school on February 29 and is open to parents, mentors and invited guests, who must register to attend.
Carolyn Amaral, the personal project co-ordinator at Somersfield, said: "We are immensely proud of our M5 students and the remarkable projects they have undertaken for their personal project.
“This expo is a culmination of their hard work and dedication, and it's inspiring to see how they have applied their learning to real-world challenges.”
The school said the event aimed to celebrate “creativity, research and personal growth, highlighting the incredible talents and dedication of our students”.
As the only school in Bermuda to offer the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme, Somersfield places a strong emphasis on inquiry-based learning and the development of essential skills.
A spokeswoman said: “The MYP Personal Project is a flagship of the programme, challenging students to engage in independent inquiry and produce a significant piece of work that reflects their interests and abilities.
“The Personal Project Expo exemplifies Somersfield Academy's commitment to providing a holistic education that nurtures students' curiosity, creativity and sense of responsibility to the world around them.”
Project highlights
• Emma Allington's investigation into eating disorders and cooking, resulting in the creation of a cookbook with a nutritional philosophy
• Samantha Binega-Northcott's restoration of a Singer sewing machine, accompanied by in-depth research into its make and model
• Nico Bean's exploration of creating notebooks and phone cases from original artwork and developing a business website to sell his products
• Jackson Langley’s adaptation of a ready-made, affordable hydroelectric generator into the rain catchment system of a model Bermuda roof to produce electricity from the flow of water
• Taylor Herzog’s combination of environmental awareness with mechanical innovation, creating a machine that turns plastic bottles into 3D printer filament, which can be used to then create 3D printed objects
Charlie Judd, the school’s head of secondary, added: “Our students have truly embraced the spirit of inquiry and innovation through their personal projects.
“Their dedication to exploring their passions and making meaningful contributions is a testament to the values we strive to instil in our students.”
At the expo, students will discuss their projects with the school community as well as parents, mentors and guests.
This article was originally published on royalgazette.com.