Engineering Course began

From 18th to 21st July, forty-seven young people from across the UK have been learning how Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths subjects can open the door to a wide variety of career options. The four-day residential course was organised by The Smallpeice Trust, in partnership with Lancaster University.The course began with a Freshers Fair, where the 16 and 17 year old students selected the courses they wanted to study and joined one of three Lancaster University Colleges. The students then spent four days taking part in a combination of presentations, workshops and practical design and make projects.

During the week students looked at a variety of issues in Biological Science, Computing, Engineering, Maths, Physics and Psychology, focusing on solving the problems of tomorrow from solar flare weather warnings to crop protection and the safe de-commissioning of nuclear waste sites. Each project was designed to challenge the students academically and to build on their team building, communication, time management and problem solving skills. Students produced academic posters and presented their findings to academics and VIP guests at a drinks reception on the final evening.As well as working on the design, build and test elements of the projects, the students developed life skills such as teamwork, communication, problem solving, time management, finance and presentation. During the social programme students had the opportunity to win points for their chosen college and took part in a film night, pub quiz and sports competition. The week culminated in a formal dinner and disco where students and supporting organisations had the opportunity to socialise and share their experiences of the week.

Fred Binley, Head of UK Student Recruitment & Outreach said Welcoming 50 university students of the future on to our campus has been a great start to the summer here at Lancaster. We’ve really enjoyed working with The Smallpeice Trust to make this event happen and I hope the young people have a feeling for what it’s like to live, work and study at a top ten university.Spokesperson for The Smallpeice Trust, Gemma Murphy added, We are delighted that this course is sponsored by Lancaster University. This jam-packed programme of activities has given the students a taste of university life and a genuine insight into the real-life challenges faced by engineers in a variety of different sectors.

The STEM Experience course is run by The Smallpeice Trust, in partnership with Lancaster University, and is part of an ongoing programme of residential courses to help young people aged 13 to 18 learn and develop skills in engineering, design, technology and manufacturing. Through running residential courses and STEM enrichment days, The Trust has reached out to 17,677 students across the UK in the past year.The new course timetable for 2012 will be launched in the autumn school term. Places are allocated on a first come, first served basis.