A mutual passion for engineering brought Pembrokeshire College engineering staff, Mainstay Marine and Broadhaven School together for a fun and engaging day of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) related activities recently.
Year 5 pupils were set a challenge by Project Manager Emma Lewis and Industrial Design Engineer Jacqueline Rawsthorne from Mainstay Marine Solutions (Workboat and Marine Energy Device Builders based in Pembroke Dock).
Pupils were tasked to design and construct a boat which could support a weight without it sinking, “I loved the day, especially making my boat, which actually floated,” enthused student Libby Phillips.
Class-based theory is not always enough to excite young people, but when supported by fun practical activities and team challenges STEM subjects are given the celebrity status they deserve. “We specifically want to encourage girls to choose science and engineering related courses as it can lead to rewarding, professional careers,” said College lecturer Karen Flannery.
“This has been an exceptional day for our children, the activities and the staff have been great. I want to book today for next year’s event!” Said Viv Grey MBE, Broadhaven School.
Stewart Graves, Managing Director at Mainstay Marine commented ‘‘We already run a comprehensive apprentice programme in collaboration with Pembrokeshire College. We were delighted to help raise awareness of STEM activities to even younger students in the county, after all, they are the engineers of tomorrow’’.
