In support of the Government’s ‘See Inside Manufacturing’ (SIM) Initiative, Schaeffler UK opened its factory doors for the fourth consecutive year to welcome local secondary school pupils to its plant in Llanelli, South Wales. Of the 57 attendees over the two days, 18 (32%) were female – a significant rise from previous years.

Schaeffler UK’s training officer Donna Williams-Bevan commented: “The open days were once again a tremendous success. Feedback from pupils and teachers was again very positive and many of the children told us that they’d now like to work in manufacturing as a result of the visit. It was also great to see so many girls attending this year. Eighteen is the highest number of girls to attend a SIM event at Llanelli since the first one in 2011. Long may this trend continue.”

The open days took place over two days at the Llanelli plant, which produces high precision bearings and automotive engine components. Year 10 and Year 11 (14-16 year olds) pupils from five local schools took part: Amman Valley, Bryngwyn, Coedcae, Glan y Mor and St John Lloyd.

Following the success of three previous open days held at the Schaeffler UK plant, the 2014 open days once again gave pupils an opportunity to get a taste of what working in a real manufacturing environment is like. Pupils were encouraged to ask questions, discuss their career plans, and to take part in engineering challenges, a team building exercise and a guided tour of the plant.