A SECONDARY school in York has received a prestigious award in recognition of its success in teaching STEM (science technology engineering and mathematics) subjects.

All Saints RC School is the first in York and across North Yorkshire to receive the ‘Excellence in STEM’ award from the National Railway Museum.

Based on a rigorous 12-month assessment, the school met seven criteria which include running regular extra-curricular activities, maintaining strong links with businesses and industry, use of STEM ambassador volunteers and promoting STEM in the wider community.

A certificate and trophy was presented to the Science department at All Saints School by Stella Chan, STEM ambassador engagement officer for North Yorkshire and York from the STEM Ambassador Hub Transpennine at a ceremony this week.

The presentation took place at the inaugural York Schools Science Fair hosted by All Saints School and organised by Dr Ruth Burke, which was attended by students, staff and business representatives from York and the surrounding area.

The event, held in the run up to International Women in Engineering Day later this month, gave pupils aged 11-15 the chance to present their latest science projects and to learn more about STEM subjects.

As part of the fair, the National Railway Museum also ran a special event called ‘People Like Me’ aimed at encouraging and inspiring teenage girls to consider careers in traditionally male-dominated industries such as engineering.

Bill Scriven, head of All Saints, said: "High quality STEM provision and development is at the heart of our Teaching School Alliance. STEM subjects are so vital for the UK economy of the future and we are working to ensure that our students are equipped with the skills they need to contribute to a changing, and increasingly technology-based job market.

“This event has been a great way to showcase this fantastic work being developed by our staff with our students, and to ensure that when our students leave here, they will have the skills they need for the future."

Lynne Minett, head of learning and events at the National Railway Museum, added: “I would like to congratulate staff and pupils at All Saints School. Receiving this award is a real achievement and certainly something to be proud of. I hope this will inspire other schools to take part and to develop their expertise in STEM subjects."