Thousands of schoolchildren from across the North East were introduced to science and engineering jobs this week as part of the STEMFest.
Organisers say more than 3,000 pupils came to three-day event at Sunderland’s Beacon of Light, where they got to try hands-on activities based around themes such as space, cyber and energy, and meet industry professionals working in STEM-related fields. The event is coordinated by the STEM Hub and delivered by Sunderland-based RTC North, and is designed to inspire young people about the breadth of careers on offer.
The most recent instalment, the fifth event of its kind, kicked off with a business network sessions hosted by TV presenter Dallas Campbell and featured speakers such as Jamie Ollivere CEO of RTC North and Jamie Wright, managing director of the Foundation of Light. They spoke of STEWFest’s impact on children and educators, as well as the companies that attend to engage with future talent.
Participating schools got to explore themed exhibition zones, including space, technology, cyber, environment, energy and manufacturing. And pre-bookable activities included an ethical hacking workshop with government outreach programme Cyber First, a construction simulator from plant hire firm Flannery, a Nissan factory simulator and a British Airways flight simulator.
There was also an immersive planetarium, an e-sports zone from Creative Hut and Sunderland College and football training from the Beacon of Light. Meanwhile former NASA Kennedy Space Center director of education, Jim Christensen, flew in from Florida to present his ‘Mars Map’ activity from the Aldrin Family Foundation where he is now chief innovation officer.
Claire Willis, team leader at the STEM Hub, said: “This has been our third and final STEMFest event for the year, and it’s been an incredible experience for everyone involved. I want to personally thank all of our sponsors, not only for their financial contributions but for their willingness to volunteer staff and engage directly with students.
“Their dedication helps us create an impactful event that connects education with industry and inspires the next generation to pursue STEM careers. We’re already looking forward to delivering STEMFest events again in 2025.”
Accounting software firm Sage was headline sponsor of the event, along with other sponsors Dogger Bank Wind Farm, OPITO, Reece Foundation, Go Construction, Community Foundation and Simpson Group.
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