Dr Steve Bunce, RGS Robotics Partnership teacher pictured outside RGS Partner school, Knop Law Primary School.
Robotics Partnerships
In conversation with Dr Steve Bunce
RGS Partnerships teacher Dr Steve Bunce works across our partner state schools to develop robotics and computing. Sponsored by British Engines and TSG, Dr Bunce is a driving force in developing the opportunities available in the world of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
As part of his role, he organises activity days to provide a way for students to learn in a fun environment, such as VEX Robotics and Lego competitions. Recently seven schools from the multi-academy ONE Trust in Newcastle took part in a robot Olympics using programmable mini robot balls called Spheros.
Can you tell us what attracted you to this role in partnerships?
Steve: I was very intrigued when I saw the job advertised, particularly the focus on partnerships and what it involved. When I came to speak to the school, I discovered a real love and passion for developing skills for everyone, which is why I took the job in the first place. There was a clear commitment to fostering collaboration among schools, and I felt this was something I wanted to be a part of.
What aspects of the job have you found most rewarding?
Steve: I’ve found a real joy in working with different schools and supporting each other. One of the things I was most pleased about when I saw the job description was that it’s not just an outreach role. It’s not about just going out to other schools to do work; it’s truly about building partnerships. Over the past year, I've seen first-hand how everyone benefits from this arrangement. It’s not just about teachers working together but providing meaningful opportunities for them to collaborate with a clear purpose, which in turn benefits the children.
For example, we’ve introduced robot equipment into schools and conducted team teaching sessions. It’s not just about us showing teachers how to do something; it’s about working together and learning from each other. We also bring students from different backgrounds together in various events. Mixing students from state schools and our own creates a rich learning environment where everyone benefits from diverse experiences and backgrounds.
Robotics Partnership event
How do the students at the partnership schools benefit from these partnerships?
Steve: The students benefit immensely from these partnerships. By mixing students from different backgrounds, including state schools and our own, they get to learn from each other’s experiences. This exposure helps broaden their perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Often, students form friendships across different schools, which is wonderful to see. They find common ground and connections that enrich their educational experience.
For example, during various collaborative events, it’s not uncommon to hear students say they already have friends in at the RGS and other school. This sense of community and belonging is one of the most rewarding aspects of these partnerships. The main message of RGS Partnerships is that collaboration and working together benefit everyone involved.
Is it working as you expected?
Steve: It’s working even better than I imagined. The vision and leadership from the senior leadership team, particularly John Smith, head of partnerships, have been crucial. Their support enables and facilitates collaboration and ensures that we can support each other effectively. This leadership has been instrumental in making things happen and driving the success of the program.
When the job was advertised, Geoffrey Stanford mentioned that teachers often struggle to work with local schools sustainably alongside their own duties. This role, with its unique funding, addresses that issue by providing dedicated resources to support these partnerships. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to see the positive impact this has had on both teachers and students.
“I hope more people learn about Robots. Following your dreams is important, and Robotics is the future.”
- Caden, Waverley Primary school student
“Robotics is quite tricky to learn. I've been to RGS for Robotics and swimming. I would like a job in computers or robotics when I'm older”
- Justine, Throckley Primary school student
Sphero Robots at Partnership event.
Can you share a bit about your background?
Steve: I started my career as a maths and science teacher and then worked for the local authority in Northumberland. That's where I first gained experience working with teachers in different schools and supporting their professional development. Over the years, I’ve also worked in computing and ICT, behaviour management, and was a deputy head in a middle school. These roles have given me a broad perspective on education and the various challenges schools face.
Later, I joined the Open University, where I supported teacher professional development and professional learning across the north of England. This role involved a lot of work with different schools, helping them integrate technology to support learning. Following leading educational consultancy across the UK for 10 years, a colleague in computing mentioned a great job opportunity, which brought me back to the north east.
What feedback have you received from teachers at the schools about RGS Partnerships?
Steve: The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Teachers appreciate the opportunities for their students to be part of these projects. For instance, we’ve had projects involving multiple visits to different schools, allowing children to get to know each other and work together on various initiatives. Teachers have told us they want to continue and expand these efforts next year.
Long-term, it’s clear that students from state schools gain access to resources and opportunities they might not have otherwise. This exposure helps them develop their skills and realise their potential. It’s amazing to see their talent and capabilities, especially in applying knowledge and using their computing and technology skills. Each teaching session reveals new surprises as we see what the students can achieve. This continuous discovery of their potential is one of the most rewarding aspects of the job.
“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Teachers appreciate the opportunities for their students to be part of these projects.”
- Dr Steve Bunce, RGS Robotics partnership teacher