2025 Primary Major Award Winner
Nash Mills C of E Primary School (Hemel Hempstead)
for
A Virtual Reality Learning System
Nash Mills Primary School has won our £10,000 Primary Award for a project to introduce an innovative Virtual Reality (VR) system into its curriculum, aiming to benefit more than 1,000 pupils annually over a minimum five-year lifespan.
From the outset, the project addresses varied learning needs: low-ability pupils will use scaffolded VR simulations—such as guided virtual science experiments—to build confidence, while high achievers tackle advanced 3D engineering and mathematics challenges that extend their problem-solving skills. By scheduling VR sessions at fixed points in the updated curriculum, Nash Mills ensures consistent, repeatable opportunities to revisit and reinforce key concepts; this planned integration prevents the technology from becoming a temporary fad.
Robust, enterprise-grade headsets and a comprehensive software license underpin the system’s longevity. To help cover future annual licensing fees, Nash Mills has secured agreements with neighbouring schools—each contributing toward the license in exchange for access to the equipment. This regional partnership not only offsets the cost but also lays the groundwork for future hardware refreshes without straining the school’s own budget.
Historically limited by basic equipment, Nash Mills can now deliver immersive STEM experiences previously out of reach: virtual visits to the International Space Station, interactive explorations of body anatomy, and up-close examinations of engineering marvels. These experiences enhance classroom lessons and open new horizons for pupils who might never otherwise encounter them.
Beyond core teaching, the VR system will catalyse new extracurricular STEM clubs and groups, allowing pupils to explore coding, virtual design challenges, and scientific investigations after school. Comprehensive staff training will ensure teachers integrate VR effectively across subjects, while ongoing pupil and teacher feedback will refine usage.
By embedding VR into both curriculum and community partnerships, Nash Mills aims to create a sustainable, high-impact model—transforming STEM education for its own pupils and those of neighbouring schools for years to come.