by Duncan Newman, Economic Development Officer
Following on from the success of our Teachers STEM CPD Seminar in February last year, we were asked to deliver another seminar this year to provide updates on career opportunities and industry developments within the engineering sector.
This year’s event was held at Bournemouth University and covered the following areas:
- What does an Engineering Degree Apprenticeships look like? – Bruno Smith & Sam Bush from Curtiss-Wright provided an overview of the structure and content of this qualification and how it benefits both the apprentice and the employer and can help to enhance the talent and skills of many local people.
- The value of work experience – Jon Ginda & Joanne Gregory of Aeroflex Hose and Engineering highlighted the importance of providing students with the opportunity of gaining hands on experience in the work place as part of their studies.
- Design Engineering at Bournemouth University – Dr Philip Sewell, Associate Professor & Head of Department of Design and Engineering at Bournemouth University explained the study opportunities available in this area.
- A hands-on engineering design exercise – During this exercise with Dr Diogo Montalvão, Head of Education and Professional Practice at Bournemouth University, delegates were able to try their hand at using technology in design.
- Progressing and studying a STEM subject at university – Steven Thomas, Bournemouth University Product Design, gave an informative presentation on his progress and experience as an undergraduate student.
The Peer to Peer Knowledge share workshop ‘How to engage/inspire students in STEM subjects’ was led by Debs Porter, CEIAG Coordinator and Teacher of CS&ICT at Poole High School. During the lively and engaging session, delegates considered how they could inspire students to consider a STEM focused career and how businesses could help with this.
Ideas included CPD events for staff with participation from businesses, opportunities for businesses to sponsor STEM clubs/awards, student visits to STEM employer sites, STEM material/resources for parents which link to work experience opportunities, annual STEM events with parent and employer involvement, informing parents as well as students of the benefits a career in a STEM focused sector can offer.
We have received some great feedback from the event from both schools and employers and are grateful to everyone involved in making the seminar such a success.
Engineering continues to be a critical skills shortage sector not just locally but across the UK. It is therefore essential for education providers and businesses to work together to raise the profile of the sector and the career opportunities available to students on leaving education.