Across Stephen Longfellow Academy, National Manufacturing Day was promoted to raise students’ knowledge and awareness of Manufacturing and Engineering careers. This was followed by a visit for students in Key stage 4 who were interested in careers in Manufacturing and Engineering. Students were supported to attend West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services in Brighouse to participate in the National Manufacturing Day event. Students had the opportunity to learn about different manufacturing and engineering employers at their stands and engage in some practical activities that replicated work in the industry e.g. use of the robotic arms and using virtual reality headsets to undertake a task, as well as a racing small scale prototype formula 1 cars.

Students were exposed to employers who use Robotics, Virtual Reality, Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Manufacturing and Computer Aided Engineering in their businesses. Students also were made aware about careers in demand which included Computer Aided Designers, Welders, Quality Controllers, Digital Marketers and Cyber Security specialists. The University of Huddersfield were also present to share where studying engineering can take students. There was also a talk on Apprenticeships, College and T Levels, it was important for students to learn that Maths and Science are crucial to Engineering and many STEM future careers.

Feedback from students showed: 80% said that they enjoyed the visit, and it had made them think about Engineering and Manufacturing Careers Post 16. 80% said that they would recommend the visit to other students at Stephen Longfellow Academy. Comments included:

  • “Yes, it was interesting, the Formula 1 challenge was probably the best bit.” Y10 student
  • “I think it was ok but too much talking and needed more practical stuff.” Year 11 student

Overall, the visit was a success and positive for the majority of students. The behaviour of all students was really positive in a busy environment with other schools present. The feedback provided by students has been shared with event organisers and we have requested that a more practical and hands on experience be provided where possible to further inspire students.