20 December 2012

Voyage of scientific and engineering discovery for school pupils

A new innovative programme of discovery has been launched at the University of Sheffield to help school pupils across South Yorkshire delve into the intriguing worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.

Discover STEM is an aspiration-raising scheme launched by the University's Outreach Team designed to inspire and enthuse teenagers from under-represented groups or those who have experienced barriers preventing their progression to higher education.

More than 60 Year 12 students, from 26 local sixth forms and colleges across the region, embarked on their first step of the two year programme last week (Friday 14 December 2012) at an interactive event.

The day gave youngsters the chance to work with current University of Sheffield undergraduate ambassadors, the Science and Engineering Champions, who gave them an exciting insight into the variety of world-leading Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths courses on offer at the University.

The teambuilding and problem solving workshops included Engineer your Life, led by local artist Cassie Limb and Dr Caroline Evans of the ChELSI Institute from the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering which showed the students the importance of STEM subjects in everyday life.

Pupil Maaria Naziq from Sheffield Park Academy said: "I am looking forward to taking part in the Discover STEM programme as it will give me the opportunity to experience different aspects of university life. Talking to the Science and Engineering Champions and taking part in the activity has made me more determined to study science at university."	Student William Wood from Brookfield Community School added: "Meeting and talking with the Science and Engineering Champions really helped me to think about what I would like to study at university. I am looking forward to taking part in the practical workshops next year and working with the Champions again."

Over the next two years the students will take part in a number of practical activities and work alongside current University students and academics from associated departments. In addition they will receive support and guidance in applying to university though a range of study skills workshops and information sessions.

Kristen Fretwell, Outreach Activities Officer, said:

"The Discover STEM programme aims to excite, inspire and inform students of the vast array of opportunities and career possibilities if they choose to study science, engineering or maths at university. The 21st century continues to see an increase in technological and scientific advancements, from nano-technology, robotic prosthetics and record-breaking sky-scrapers to research into the cure for cancer, nurological and genetic diseases. If we continue at this current rate of technological and scientific evolution we will require many more people working in science, engineering and maths. It was fantastic to finally meet the Discover STEM students and introduce this exciting new programme. The Discover STEM programme will hopefully provide these students with the skills, knowledge and confidence to apply and be successful at university as well as providing a unique insight and a taster of what the University of Sheffield can offer."