STEM event helps spark career ambitions

A North East education charity has helped more than 160 Tees Valley students explore future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics through a hands-on industry event.

The North East STEM Foundation (NESF) organised and funded a STEM Careers Day at Teesside University, bringing together young people aged 13 to 15 with employers from across the region.

Students from ten schools, including Outwood Academy Redcar, Hummersknott Academy and Acklam Grange School, attended the event to learn more about opportunities within STEM industries.

Representatives from businesses spanning science, chemicals, construction, engineering, infrastructure and recruitment took part, including 3M Science, Jiahua Chemicals, MGL Group, Sir Robert McAlpine, Balfour Beatty/Technip Energies and Steel Benders UK.

The day began with a careers marketplace, giving students the opportunity to speak directly with industry professionals about their roles, qualifications and career paths.

A series of employer-led workshops then challenged participants to apply STEM skills through practical activities and problem-solving exercises.

Tasks included bridge-building, engineering and construction challenges, extracting DNA from strawberries, exploring critical raw materials and building structures using spaghetti and marshmallows.

Michelle Henderson, NESF’s director of foundation development, said: “Our aim is to help students make the connection between what they learn in the classroom and the careers they could pursue in the future. 

“By bringing employers and young people together, we can provide valuable insight into the skills, qualifications and attributes businesses are looking for while helping students understand the breadth of opportunities available to them.

“The success of this event would not have been possible without the fantastic support of the employers involved. 

“Their willingness to share their knowledge, experiences and enthusiasm gave students an authentic insight into the world of work and the many pathways available within STEM.”

Hosted in Teesside University’s Digital Life building, the event formed part of NESF's wider work to connect employers with young people and raise awareness of the career opportunities available within sectors that are vital to the North East economy.

Amy Newton, student recruitment and outreach manager at Teesside University, added: “Here at Teesside University, we are committed to opening doors, raising aspirations and helping young people reach their potential.

“We were delighted to work in partnership with North East STEM Foundation and welcome local schools to our discovery event. 

“It was fantastic to see how engaged the groups were with the practical activities.

“Events like these are hugely important in encouraging interest and participation in STEM, and we hope that the students feel inspired and empowered by what they have learned.”

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