Year 8 pupils from Melbourn Village College stepped into the role of robotics engineers on Tuesday 7 July as they took part in a hands-on design challenge delivered in partnership with TTP.
This event brought together 114 pupils and 11 volunteers from across TTP to explore how engineering and technology can solve real-world problems while giving young people the opportunity to meet the scientists, engineers and innovators working in the sector today.
Using customer profiles to understand different needs, each team developed their own robot concept before a surprise twist challenged them to build a working prototype robotic arm capable of picking up a variety of household objects. Teams then pitched their ideas, explaining the thinking behind their designs and demonstrating how their prototype met the client’s requirements.
Throughout the day, pupils worked alongside engineers, scientists and innovators from TTP, giving them the opportunity to ask questions, explore career pathways and discover more about the people behind the technology.
“Too often, young students lack access to opportunities and role models that allow them to explore and learn about the diverse range of sectors and future careers that exist - sometimes on their very own doorstep. It's hard to aspire to something that you don't know exists, or which you don't have an 'in' to understanding.
We were therefore delighted to partner with Form the Future and spend a morning with our neighbours, Melbourn Village College, immersing their Year 8 students in a hands-on engineering and design challenge; helping them to explore what 'engineering' as a subject area and career can be, and giving them access to role models - real-life scientists, engineers and innovators - so that they can understand that: a) these jobs exist and b) that they could do that, too, one day.
Thank you to everyone who made the day happen. It's safe to say that all the TTP-ers involved left feeling inspired and excited by their time spent with the next-generation of innovators!”
The experience isn’t over yet. On Friday 10 July, pupils from the winning team in each classroom, alongside several others recognised for their enthusiasm and engagement throughout the day, will visit TTP’s campus.
The visit will give pupils the opportunity to tour a real working environment, meet TTP consultants from across the business and learn more about the different routes from education into engineering and technology careers. They’ll also hear first-hand what a typical day looks like for people working in the industry, helping to bring the possibilities of a future career in STEM to life.
Experiences like this help young people see how the subjects they study in school connect to future careers. By working alongside employers and hearing directly from professionals, pupils gain a better understanding of the opportunities available to them and the pathways that could lead there.
If you think your company could inspire the next generation, please contact our Head of Business Development, Gwen Bergius, at gbergius@formthefuture.org.uk or visit our partners page for more information.
