Hundreds of school children from secondary schools across the North West have been given the opportunity to learn more about developing a career in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM) at this year’s Science Summer School.
The innovative event, sponsored by Ibstock, took place at West Lancashire College in Skelmersdale and was the first of its kind in the region.
Hosted virtually by Professor Brian Cox OBE and developed by the college in partnership with Well North Enterprises and West Lancashire Partnership, the Science Summer School was designed to inspire and invigorate the younger generation into the exciting and extraordinary opportunities available in STEAM industries.
The blended event, with a mix of both virtual and live elements, kicked off with Professor Cox sharing his vision that ‘Britain is the best place to do science’.
On the day, students from across the North West were transported into a world of science, having the opportunity to hear a whole range of inspirational speakers and engage in seminars and workshops aimed at promoting the fantastic careers available in STEAM businesses.
As the UK’s leading manufacturer of clay bricks and concrete building products and a major employer in the Skelmersdale area through its local Ravenhead factory, Ibstock was proud to sponsor the event.
Joe Hudson, CEO of Ibstock plc, said: “As a manufacturing business in the construction supply chain, Ibstock is passionate about the development of young people and bringing new talent into the industry.
“The Science Summer School celebrates the UK’s excellence in STEAM industries, so it was a fantastic opportunity for pupils across the North West to learn more and be inspired to think seriously about the different opportunities that these subjects can open up. We were delighted to be one of the key sponsors of the event.”
The Science Summer School event culminated in a virtual evening reception, where employers from across the globe came together online to hear Professor Cox and guests speak about creating a lasting legacy of excellence in STEAM, how to inspire future generations and putting Skelmersdale on the map to be the best place for science and engineering in the world!
Lord Andrew Mawson OBE, Executive Chair, Well North Enterprises, commented: “Just as science has enabled us to reach Mars and start to explore the surface, we’ve begun a journey here on Earth led by Professor Brian Cox and joined by our many forward-thinking partners to make Skelmersdale a place where the extraordinary can happen through science and engineering. We were delighted to welcome all our young participants and their teachers for what was a journey of a lifetime!”
For more information on Ibstock and its extensive range of solutions, visit www.ibstockplc.co.uk
