Award Levels
You and your school are eligible to apply for one of our awards, no matter where you are on your STEM journey.
We have three Curious Minds award levels: Silver, Gold and Platinum. Keep reading for an overview of each.
Please note: as part of our Curious Minds rebrand, our award names have changed. We would like to reassure you that the criteria for these awards is the same as in past years.
Silver
Formerly named the Certificate of STEM
The Silver Award is ideal for schools who are entering for the first time. Two classes from your school must participate.
This award is the perfect way to start deepening STEM engagement in your school. Achieving a Silver Award is a huge win for any school looking to celebrate their STEM work.
Silver Awards Application Guide
Gold
Formerly named the Plaque of STEM
The Gold Award is a fantastic option for schools that have completed a Silver Award (or Certificate of STEM) and are looking to enhance their STEM learning.
This award must include more than half of the classes in your school.
The Gold Award involves more informal STEM learning, with learners sharing the fun both inside and outside the classroom. This might involve schools taking part in a national STEM week or visiting a Discover Centre.
Platinum (Development Project)
Formerly named the Badge of Excellence
The Platinum Award is suitable for schools that have completed one or more Gold Awards and are looking for a new challenge.
This award is a school-wide development project focusing on raising awareness of STEM and how taking part has improved the school community.
The Platinum Award is a significant step up in terms of effort from a Gold Award. Entrants must choose an outcome at the beginning of the year, achieve that outcome and then demonstrate its impact.
Annual applications for the Platinum Award will be capped at 30 schools. Sign up early to avoid disappointment.
- Platinum Award Sign-Up Deadline: Friday 20 October 2023
- Submission of pre-Platinum application form: Friday 27 October 2023
- Submission of full Platinum Award application: Friday 19 April 2024
Platinum Awards Application Guide