STEP Forward is an exciting project designed to bring the cutting-edge world of fusion energy into Key Stage 2 classrooms. Backed by the Royal Academy of Engineering’s Ingenious scheme, their aim is to inspire the next generation of problem-solvers to become the makers of tomorrow.
Today's Big Assembly follows on from the success of their previous Big Assembly, held in May, which saw 502 school children and 21 teachers attending. and primary school children given the chance to hear about the work of Maker{Futures}’s fabulous 5 engineers (4 of whom were brilliant female engineers).
At the International Women in Engineering Day Big Assembly primary school children will have the opportunity to get excited about the STEP Forward project and to glimpse into the exciting world of engineering. They will meet three female engineers Kate, a civil engineer, Kathryn, a metallurgical engineer and Sophie, a materials engineer, and there will be more engineers taking part on the big day.
The children will be given the chance to put questions to the engineers and they will see a montage video of all the exciting STEP Forward activities that have been happening in primary schools over the past few months.
Alison Buxton, STEP Forward project lead and Senior Innovation Fellow at the University of Sheffield said,
"As women make up over half of the UK population, their perspectives and expertise must be reflected in the design of the products and services we rely on daily. Through its focus on sustainable energy, the STEP Forward project is inspiring all children and young people to see engineering as an exciting career opportunity."
Sophie, a PhD researcher in materials looking at steels for fusion applications, said
“I've really enjoyed getting involved with Maker{futures} so far, particularly with the STEP Forward programme. I think it's really important to show children at a young age the range of roles you can do as an engineer and that it truly can be for anyone. The work around the local area to the STEP powerplant has been a great way to show children and their families the world changing technology that is due to be built on their doorstep, reassure them that it is safe, and hopefully inspire the future workforce too."
