What is FameLab Academy International?

FameLab Academy International is the sister competition of FameLab and takes this successful format and adapts it to a secondary school context.

The main aim of FameLab Academy International is to encourage future scientists including social scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians to find their voices and inspire and excite the public imagination.

Teachers are equipped with training and resources, to support students in developing their skills and confidence in preparing and delivering a talk on a STEM topic of their choice. Students are supported by their teachers and a STEM Mentor from the world of academia or industry, prepare three-minute talks without the use of PowerPoint to explain a scientific topic in a dynamic and engaging way.

They will be judged  the 3 Cs of FameLab - content, clarity and charisma. Students first compete in front of an audience of their peers and a judging panel of their teachers to find a winner from each school. The winner from each school receives a National Masterclass training in science communication before they take part in a national final in each country. The National final usually takes place in front of a public audience, their family and friends and a high-profile judging panel.

Through our partnership with Country Host Organisations in different countries students from around the world become part of a global network of future science communicators, that will help them throughout their academic and personal life.

Aims of FameLab Academy International

Develop students’ skill and confidence in communicating science, technology, engineering and maths
Increase students’ understanding of the value and relevance of science in everyday life
Raise awareness of the breadth of STEM careers available to young people
Build networks of and between teachers and STEM professionals

The key outcomes of FameLab Academy International are:

At least 10 students (mainly aged 12-15) from each school go through the programme and many more experience FameLab Academy International through being an audience member
Students and teachers report an increase in the communication skills and confidence of participants
Students report a positive change in their attitude to STEM and increase their understanding of STEM career opportunities available
Links between teachers, schools, STEM professionals and STEM companies can extend beyond the lifetime of the project