Engineering students from the University Centre at Blackburn College are using modified EV racing karts to develop STEM workshops for local schools.
(Credit: Blackburn College)
The peer-led project involves six BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering students. Based on similar ambassador programmes undertaken by universities around the world, the programme will aim to encourage children in Lancashire to consider a future within STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects.
“Delivering these ambassador programmes is instrumental in encouraging children to become the generation of future engineers,” said Danny White, manager of Purdue University Motorsports, which runs a similar programme in the US. “These programmes bring STEM into the classroom and ensure that children are aware of the opportunities available to them, developing well rounded and engaging curriculums.
“Creating programmes around subjects that children find engaging, whilst also providing in-depth knowledge about several industries such as motorsports, IT, manufacturing, whilst learning about key employability skills.”
The programme is supported by Future-U - an organisation set up to help future-proof the workforces of tomorrow - as well as industrial partners in the region.
“This project is an exciting opportunity to develop a programme, which actively encourages the development and engagement of STEM activities across both higher education and further education (FE),” said project industry lead Richard Tafts, health and safety manager at NIS, based in Chorley, Lancashire.
“The BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering students will lead that project; interviewing the FE students, choosing their team and deciding on the format and content of the school workshops. The FE students will then deliver the workshops.”
Nicholas Hall, business development manager at Blackburn College added: “We are delighted to be running this project with the support of Future – U and look forward to watching the project develop and engage with schools throughout Lancashire.
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