STEAMS is an integrated approach to learning topics of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Maths, and Society that fosters critical thinking, problem solving, communication and collaboration. Its aim is to teach real world skills through engaging methods whilst allowing individuals to be creative. This involves immersing tamariki into projects and activities that develop innovation and champion curiosity. STEAMS is not ‘play based learning’ but focused learning through an integrated hands-on approach allowing children to take risks and explore their own curiosity in a subject without time barriers.
At the Ministry of Inspiration we offer STEAMS learning each term for Year 1-8 students. Once a week students will attend a class based upon age at either our Richmond or Nelson Campus. Little STEAMerS, ages 5-6 spend a morning with our teachers from 9-12, STEAMS Jr (ages 7-9) and STEAMS Sr (ages 10-13) start at 9am and finish at 2:45pm.
Inquiry, collaboration, and an emphasis on process-based learning are at the heart of the STEAM approach. Each term the classes will have a focus which drives the learning and our amazing teachers create opportunities to help each student develop their understanding, improve their skills and gain knowledge in a range of topics.
Students who participate in STEAM learning:
· think outside the box
· feel safe to express innovative and creative ideas
· feel comfortable doing hands-on learning
· take ownership over their learning
· work collaboratively with others
· understand the ways that science, maths, the arts, and technology work together
· become increasingly curious about the world around them and feel empowered to change it for the better.
When does it meet, and where?
The school is held during school terms, from 9:00 am to 2:45 pm. Except Little STEAMerS which meets from 9-12.
For 2026, STEAMS School will meet in two locations, Unite Church in Nelson and Holy Trinity Church Richmond. Students commit to one site.
Little STEAMerS (ages 5-6) Nelson (Wed)
STEAMS Jr (ages 7-9) Nelson (Tues/Fri) Richmond (THURS)
STEAMS Sr (ages 10-13) Nelson (Tues/Fri) Richmond (THURS)
STEAMS Specialized (ages 9-14) Nelson (Wed)
How much does it cost?
The students come for a three-week trial-as a new student you pay for that through Humanitix. The trial is non-refundable.
If both family and teacher feel there is a good fit for the child in the class, they continue for the rest of the term. You are then invoiced for the full term less the amount paid for the Trial.
Payment is by term, with a cost of $73 per day inc GST. We have a limited number of scholarships available that are awarded on a term by term basis for those with financial need for 25% off. Little STEAMerS is $30 per day inc GST and scholarships are not offered for this course.
Will my child’s school mind that they miss a day per week?
You will need to inform the child’s school that he or she will be at STEAMS School one day per week. To date we have not encountered any issues around accommodating a child’s participation in STEAMS School, and many of the region’s schools are very supportive of the programme. Once enrolled, you are encouraged to inform the teacher and office staff that your child should be marked present for the day they attend STEAMS School, as they will be attending an academic school as opposed to being absent due to illness or other reasons.
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