Students inspired by ‘awesome’ interactive STEM activities
Published: 17 October, 2024
Sixth Form pupils with special education needs have been inspired by the latest technology used in industry during an action-packed visit from experts at Sellafield Ltd’s Engineering Centre of Excellence.
Students at Mayfield School in Whitehaven were excited by the fully immersive experiences they were able to join in which included virtual reality, operating drones on a simulator, construction, electrical circuits and controlling a remotely operated robot dog.
The visit was organised by the Centre of Excellence’s Socio-Economic team to allow more young people across the whole of Cumbria access to fun, interactive science and engineering initiatives.
One of the pupils at Mayfield, aged 16, said: “I thought it was excellent and brilliant. It was 10 times better than I was expecting.
“The robotic dog was my favourite and the favourite trick that it did was dancing. I would love to do this day all over again.”
Another pupil, aged 18, added: “It was really fun to see all of the different technologies they have at Sellafield, and I I really liked the robotic dog, the virtual reality, and the drone.
“The visit showed me that I would really love to work at Sellafield, and anything I got to do there would be awesome.”
Throughout the visit, there were several stations dotted around to ensure every pupil was able to sample as many activities as possible.
Trevor Milton, the Sixth Form teacher at Mayfield School, said: “Our students thoroughly enjoyed the day, and they engaged with the visiting staff and learned skills linked to STEM communication, following instructions, teamwork and most importantly having fun.
“We would like to thank Sellafield Ltd’s Engineering Centre of Excellence for visiting and giving us a fantastic experience.”
Sellafield Ltd’s Engineering Centre of Excellence has established strong links with schools and colleges throughout Cumbria, working with young people to raise their engagement with STEM subjects through fun and educational projects.
Staff from the centre regularly visit education establishments throughout the county or invite young people to experience their hub of activity at Leconfield Industrial Estate, in Cleator Moor.
Kelly Earl organised the visit to Mayfield on behalf of Sellafield’s Engineering Centre of Excellence. She said: “It’s amazing to see how much young people engage with STEM through the various activities we host, and seeing the reaction from the students makes it all worthwhile.
“It’s all about making sure as many young people from across the whole of Cumbria have access to science and technology especially when opportunities may be limited elsewhere, and the goal is to inspire, educate and entertain the next generation of engineering stars.
“Our visit to Mayfield School was so rewarding as the students really engaged and enjoyed taking part in the stations, and we are delighted to be able to play a part in their education journey.
“Being able to get out into the community like this is a Sellafield Ltd wide effort. We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without the support of colleagues based on site, offering different skills and experiences to the pupils.”
Sellafield Ltd’s Engineering Centre of Excellence is currently developing its relationships with schools to widen its activities to more areas across Cumbria.
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