20/06/2013
Students from schools in Wolverhampton and South Staffordshire were the first to be given an insight today into a future career in engineering at new workshops held at i54 South Staffordshire.
Designed to inspire young people to consider a career in engineering, construction or manufacturing, these workshops form part of a programme of bespoke educational activities which have been developed in partnership with Jaguar Land Rover, Staffordshire County Council, Wolverhampton City Council, South Staffordshire Council and construction company Interserve.
The 32 students from Elston Hall Primary, Bilbrook and Perton Middle Schools took part in the ‘Bridge the Gap’ and ‘Wind Power’ modules which challenged them to build a replica suspension bridge and wind turbines.
Staffordshire County Council leader Philip Atkins, Wolverhampton City Council leader Roger Lawrence and South Staffordshire Council leader Brian Edwards said: “We want i54 South Staffordshire to inspire young people and hope many of those who visit the site will consider a future career in engineering or manufacturing. This is another example of the public and private sectors joining up to ensure our regional skills base increases and we can improve opportunities for younger generations.”
Les Ratcliffe, Head of Community Relations, Jaguar Land Rover said, “It is critical that we encourage talented young people to become the next generation of engineers and technologists to help sustain our business over the long-term.”
“This new education programme will form an integral part of our new Engine Manufacturing Centre’s community relations strategy. Working with our partners, we are keen to work with schools from across the region to enrich the education of young people inspiring them to consider careers in engineering, manufacturing and construction.”
The education programme of activities is now available to schools across the region. For more details people can contact Wolverhampton Education Business Partnership on 01902 555277 or ebp.info@wolverhampto.gov.uk