Over 200 children from across the North East will descend upon Newcastle Racecourse next month (JULY) as Northumbrian Water’s Innovation Festival returns.
A variety of exciting activities are set to take place to encourage pupils aged 14-17 to get involved in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) related careers.
The festival will provide the students with experience in the different areas of STEM by getting them involved in a design sprint focused on finding creative solutions to aid the water company’s Bin the Wipe campaign.
The students will apply sprint methodology by working together in teams to figure out new ways to encourage the public to stop flushing wet wipes down the toilet.
As well as this, they will also be offered surprise and delight by ‘street scientists’ and will be invited to take part in the ‘Fix-it Café’ to help them put their DIY skills to the test.
A team of trained ‘Stemazing’ experts will also be on hand to offer guidance for the youngsters, showing them the importance of learning STEM skills in relation to future jobs and preparing for the world of work.
As well as the tailored STEM activities taking place, the students will also be invited to watch the inspiring celebrity speeches by Sara Davies and Jay Blades.
Alex Brennan, Talent Manager at Northumbrian Water said: “This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for the students in our region.
“This is the age that the pupils will be starting to think about what kind of careers they would like to consider for the future, and STEM is a brilliant vocation to look at.
“This festival will show that STEM doesn’t have to be boring or drab, but in fact there are so many different thrilling aspects to get involved with.
“It will also be a great way for them to expand their networks for the future and make some connections that could prove valuable one day.”
To get registered for the festival, go to – www.innovationfestival.org/register