In the past school year, students from today’s 12th grade at IGS Seelze completed a special project as part of an elective course (WPK) on the topic of “Water.” Together with their teachers and with support from onoff automation services gmbh, a subsidiary of the SpiraTec Group, they developed a unique model. In addition to the subjects geography and chemistry, the project focused not only on academic work but also on practical learning — from managing budgets and requirements to material procurement and creative implementation.
The result is a so-called stream table, a model that simulates the water cycle and river flows. Four adjustable nozzles create different flow intensities, making sedimentation and erosion visible. Sand and gravel shift under water pressure, new riverbeds form, and the path from the source to a lake or the sea can be observed. A hydraulic jack also allows the simulation of gradients or strong waves.
For Dennis Cassens, Head of Upper Secondary Education (Sek II) at IGS Seelze, the benefit is clear: “With this model, theoretical topics become visible. This project was also extremely enriching for the course community and showed where creativity is needed.” The model is also used in lower grades in the subject of social studies, providing a hands-on approach to theoretical content.
onoff provided technical support during construction and announced plans for deeper collaboration. Starting next year, an annual internship position will be offered to a student from grade 11. Interested students can apply through their teachers, who will forward recommendations to onoff.
We are also very pleased about the collaboration: “It is close to our hearts to get in touch with interested young people at an early stage and to introduce them to the wide range of training opportunities we offer,” emphasizes Frank Jahr, Managing Director of onoff automation services gmbh.
