STEMinn: How to Innovate with a Problem-Solving Mindset

Today’s students are the leaders of tomorrow.

 

Unique to Stamford American School, the STEMinn education program combines science, technology, engineering, and math and focuses on innovation to elevate students in Hong Kong into innovators ready to tackle global issues. At its core, students build a strong understanding of all areas of science and technology while learning how to design and engineer with a focus on sustainability and social responsibility. The STEMinn program is fully embedded in our curriculum, so innovation is in the DNA of a Stamford education. Through various units and hands-on projects, students gain in-demand skills such as leadership, complex problem-solving, and analytical thinking to drive success in any field.

two students building a figure

 

Stamford’s STEMinn Vision

 

1. Sustainability

How will we assure our world is safe, clean, and inclusive for generations to come?

2. Technology

How do we create and engage with digital products and media?

3. Engineering

How do we design, build, and use resources to solve problems?

4. Modelling & Making

How can we simulate products and systems in order to learn and predict future outcomes?

5. Innovation

How do we leverage knowledge, skills, and the design process to make innovative products and systems that improve the lives of others?

Elementary STEMinn Program (Pre-Primary to Grade 5)

In Stamford American School’s Elementary STEMinn program in Hong Kong, our youngest learners (Pre-Primary to Grade 5, starting from age 5) are introduced to the exciting world of STEM through hands-on exploration and creativity.

Students delve into four key areas of science — Life Science, Earth and Space Science, Physical Science, and ETS (Engineering, Technology, and the Application of Science). Through engaging, project-based activities, they build a strong foundation in engineering while naturally connecting concepts from mathematics, social studies, and the arts.

Using cutting-edge technological tools and screen-free robotics kits, students learn design thinking and collaborate on fun, meaningful projects such as building magnetic mazes and eco-circuits when unplugged. These experiences help them form their first school robotics teams while developing essential skills in problem-solving, innovation, and teamwork.

Above all, the Elementary STEMinn program emphasizes purposeful innovation — teaching children how to use technology and engineering not just as tools, but as powerful ways to understand the world and make a positive difference.

See our Inspiring STEM Innovators

Shaping the Future

Watch video: Pioneering STEMinn with a Self-Made Drone

Trevor, a graduate from the Class of 2025, discovered his passion for engineering in High School and built a flying drone by experimenting with coding for his Grade 10 Sophomore Project. He pursues a mechanical engineering degree at the HKUST, turning his school-day curiosity into a future career path.

Secondary STEMinn Program (Grade 6-Grade 12)

In our Secondary STEMinn program, students build strong foundational skills across various STEM fields while elevating their designs and innovations through advanced technologies. The curriculum covers key areas such as advanced coding, user experience (UX) design, and product design and modeling. Guided by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), students focus on sustainability and real-world global challenges, helping them create meaningful engineering and design outcomes.

Through the STEMinn program, students develop a strong portfolio of innovative projects and in-demand skills, making them highly competitive candidates for university and future success.

Secondary Robotic team participants in the Joint school Robotic Challenge in Singapore (1)

Secondary STEMinn Program (Grade 6-Grade 12)

In Grades 6–10, our unique and ever-evolving STEMinn curriculum draws from ISTE, IGCSE Design & Technology, and CSTA standards. While the core principles remain consistent, the content and activities continuously evolve to reflect technological advancements, current events, and industry trends. We maintain a strong foundation in design methodology based on the MYP Design framework for sequencing and assessment.

In Grades 11 and 12, Stamford offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) pathways in Design Technology and Computer Science, allowing students to deepen their passion in engineering and technology.

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Why STEMinn?

Technology-related jobs are some of the fastest-growing professions highlighted in “The Future of Jobs Report 2025” published by the World Economic Forum. The Swiss-based think tank’s study also shows that artificial intelligence (AI) – computer systems that can copy intelligent human behaviour – and big data, networks and cybersecurity and technology literacy top the list of rapidly developing skills.

In addition to the core units, STEMinn program’s students are stretched each year by two innovation-focused project weeks: “Mission Inspire” and “Sustainable Stamford” in Hong Kong. Students from Pre-primary to Grade 12 focus on a school-wide theme to encourage knowledge sharing and collaboration that builds a community of STEM innovators in Hong Kong across grade levels with top-level education.

Let us show you more!

Discover a world of opportunities under one roof as this truly international education creates and offers choices of curriculum suited to your child's future path.