Young people aged 11-16 were invited to take part in talks and activities delivered by local businesses across a week of STEM Career Days held by the museum in Warwickshire.
More than 200 secondary-aged pupils attended this year’s STEM Week, which involved expert-led talks and hands-on taster activities led by games developers, vehicle engineers, and technology innovators.
Designed and led by the British Motor Museum, the week’s activities were aimed at helping young people explore STEM subjects that inspire them and to understand the access pathway that best suits their learning preferences.
Local companies involved included Playground Games, Lotus Cars, and WMG Academy for Young Engineers, showcasing a diverse range of careers in science, engineering and wider technology industries.
“To stay a world leader in technology, the UK has to encourage more young people into STEM careers at every level.”
Claire Broader, British Motor Museum
Claire Broader, learning & engagement officer at the British Motor Museum, said: “All around us are examples of the amazing things achieved by scientists and engineers.
“We brought together some inspirational examples from world-leading local businesses.These include designing supercars, developing electric vehicle technologies, and programming a world-leading driving game, ‘Forza Horizon’.
“Each example came to life thanks to a fantastic group of experts from the partner companies. It was wonderful seeing the excitement as the children realised that they could do it too.”
Investing in the next generation
STEM Careers Days form a major part of the Museum’s calendar of community and education activities, and serve as a valuable investment in the future of STEM professionals in the UK.
“It’s an area where at every level, there are too few really good candidates,” explained Claire. “To stay a world leader in technology, the UK has to encourage more young people into STEM careers at every level.”
According to the museum, many participants arrived with limited knowledge of STEM career opportunities, but left with increased confidence, clear direction and a renewed sense of ambition.
School trips to the British Motor Museum
The British Motor Museum is one of Europe’s best centres for the conservation and display of automotive heritage. As well as regular STEM Career Days held throughout the year, it offers hands-on workshops and activities to enhance a school visit, covering topics across STEM, history and art.
Early Years to Key Stage 2 can learn about materials used to build cars and have a go at designing their own, explore the science behind force and motion with LEGO Technic kits, and experiment with colour when creating their own maths-focused print.
For Key Stages 3 & 4, sessions give students practical insights into industry roles, such as an engineer for a top racing team or a scientist tasked with mastering sustainable fuels.
Schools interested in taking part in future STEM activities at the British Motor Museum can contact Claire Broader at claire.broader@britishmotormuseum.co.uk.
For more information about school visits at the museum go to: britishmotormuseum.co.uk/learning/schools.
