CREST stands for CReativity in Engineering, Science and Technology.

The awards are designed to reward creative problem-solving in STEM project work.

They are available at three levels: Bronze (~10 hours work), Silver (~30 hours work) and Gold (~70 hours work), spanning KS3, KS4 and KS5. Projects can be carried out in any STEM subject, and several project formats are supported, including Practical Science Investigations, Design/Engineering Challenge, Research, and Science Communication. Projects can take place in lessons or in extra-curricular clubs.

At Bronze level, the awards are teacher-assessed, but at Silver and Gold they must be assessed by SETPOINT. The involvement of a mentor from STEM academia or industry is preferred at Silver level and compulsory at Gold.

More information can be found on the British Science Association website.

As well as through project work in schools, CREST Awards can be obtained through various schemes. We at SETPOINT do not run all of these ourselves, but in some cases support the schemes with accreditation via CREST. Currently, these schemes are:

 Rotary Technology Tournaments (Bronze) - run by local Rotay ClubsVeolia Three Valleys CREST in a Day (Bronze) - run by VeoliaGo4SET (Silver or Bronze) - run by the Engineering Development TrustMBDA work experience placements (Silver) - run by MBDAEngineering Education Scheme England (Gold) - run by the Engineering Development TrustNuffield Research Bursaries (Gold) - run by SETPOINT Hertfordshire

A teacher quote about CREST:

"CREST is an important way to challenge students and allow them to have fun at the same time. It teaches them the value of research and planning as well as providing a chance to work with experts in a given field. In addition, there are numerous opportunities to meet and speak to other young people who have completed similar projects. Currently, there are no other schemes that offer the sort of long-term project possibilities that CREST does."

Please note:

SETPOINT Hertfordshire are the CREST co-ordinators for schools in Hertfordshire, for other areas please see the British Science Association website for your local contact

Useful Downloads:

CREST redevelopment info for teachers Sept 2009.pdf

BRAND NEW! Project ideas for CREST awards at all levels: http://www.britishscienceassociation.org/web/ccaf/CREST/FreeProjectIdeas/New+Project+Resources.htm