Cardiff University students demonstrate the lunar phases during the STARS training event.

Universe in the Classroom has been collecting STARS to send to schools across Wales to inspire and educate young children. After completing training in communication and primary education, they’re now they’re primed and ready for action!

STARS, or Stellar Role Models, are BSc, MSc and PhD students from Cardiff University’s science schools who have volunteered to help inspire and educate welsh primary students using astronomy.
The programme’s team of STARS is currently made up of 16 enthusiastic students who will primarily be helping to run workshops in primary schools using activities and materials from the Universe-in-a-Box toolkit. STARS will not only pass on new knowledge and skills to the country’s youth, they are also acting as role models, demonstrating to children that anyone can be a scientist, regardless of age, gender or background.
Not only will the STARS programme give Cardiff University students the opportunity to work with local

Cardiff University PhD students demonstrate the seasons at STARS training session.

communities and play a role in improving education and skill capacity across Wales, they will also receive training in communication and education, improving their employability for the future.

Earlier this week, the STARS took part in a two hour training session during which they were pleasantly enthusiastic and capable. The training session provided participants with an opportunity to familiarise themselves with activities from Universe-in-a-Box, learn how to effectively communicate science to a young audience from an experienced primary school teacher, and hone their creative communication skills during a science storytelling game.

If you want to become a STAR or know someone who does, simply contact us at unawe@astro.cf.uk or visit our webpage for more information at http://tinyurl.com/ohjrkyw