Book Nook - Make Your Own Rainbow: A colourful approach to all things STEAM

 

Some of the biggest breakthroughs in science and technology, like figuring out the structure of DNA and space exploration, owe their success to creative thinking. Scientists, engineers and mathematicians – those working on technological advances – can be just as inventive as artists. It is hard to find major discoveries that don't stem from exceptional creativity.   But for young people to take on the discoveries of tomorrow, we need to show them that STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) isn’t just about equations and formulas; it can involve creativity, fun and hands-on exploration. With a skills shortage noted in these areas, now is the time to engage young people to fulfil these roles and take on STEAM-based careers, to the benefit of everyone in the future.¹

STEAM education and learning can often seem overwhelming, and the skill of teaching tricky subjects in an accessible way is difficult to master. As creator and director of Amazelab, the award-winning STEAM resource company, Leonie Briggs is passionate about making STEAM education easy for teachers and engaging for students.

Her new book Make Your Own Rainbow: A colourful approach to all things STEAM identifies creative, fun and easy ways to explore STEAM subjects using the colours of the rainbow to inspire and enthuse young learners. The book offers 40 engaging and cost-effective activities for teachers of kindergarten, elementary, middle and high school children; ideas that parents and carers can also enjoy at home. It aims to inspire young people to discover, interact with and enjoy STEAM subjects and in doing so, to help them develop a life-long love of these topics.   Make Your Own Rainbow will ignite a spark to really encourage educators, parents, carers and young people to get involved with, enjoy and take further steps in STEAM. Leonie believes that “by weaving the colours of the rainbow throughout your STEAM curriculum, you can spark curiosity, cultivate creativity, develop essential life skills and nurture the next generation of innovative thinkers.”  Suitable for teachers, community group leaders, parents and carers with an interest in STEAM subjects.

¹ ‘Addressing the STEM skills shortage challenge’, The Institute of Engineering & Technology, 2021. Available at: https://www.theiet.org/media/8186/addressing-the-stem-skill-s-shortage-challenge-report.pdf.

Leonie Briggs is a science teacher, STEAM lead, STEM Ambassador, CREST Assessor and Director of Amazelab. With a varied background in STEM – ranging from veterinary and general practice to orthopaedics – she eventually discovered her passion for education and has held various roles as a primary, secondary, post 16 and alternative provision teacher specialising in science and chemistry.


Leonie’s dedication has won her multiple accolades, including ‘Outstanding New STEM Ambassador’ (STEM Inspiration Awards 2022), nominations for the Global Teacher Prize (2021) and the National Teaching Awards (2022), recognition as one of the UK’s Top 100 Female Entrepreneurs (2025) and a Green Growth Awards finalist (2025).

Under her leadership, Amazelab has won UK Enterprise Awards for STEAM Education (2023 & 2024), Start-Up Business of the Year (2022) and STEAM Education Platform of the Year (2025).