Young People inspired to take up ‘innovative’ careers

A STEM Discovery Day, 3D printing and Medical School – just some of the areas explored by students at Camborne Science and International Academy recently.

Held in conjunction with the government’s Year of Engineering campaign, the event was designed to urge young people to consider the engineering industry, as well as a number of other innovative career paths.

CSIA recently hosted a ‘PSHE and Citizenship Day’ which is “designed to bring the world of work to students to inspire every one of them.” Susan Gellatly, Head of PSHE, Citizenship and Careers commented, “The Year of Engineering Campaign aims to highlight the fantastic benefits of engineering careers so it made perfect sense to connect PSHE Day with the campaign to showcase the array of opportunities which lie ahead in STEM, but many other industries too.”

The event was held in collaboration with the Cornwall Education Business Partnership and other key partners including Cornwall Manufacturers Group and the Careers and Enterprise Company.

“It was an absolutely fantastic day and our students left feeling inspired having discovered many exciting career paths. We had over 30 employers and further education providers at our event so the variety of different exhibitors was very diverse.”

The event incorporated a STEM Discovery Day for Year 7, meeting university ambassadors and employers for Year 8 and a Careers Fair for Years 9 – 13. “Our more able learners were given a fantastic insight into Medical School and took part in many different practical activities including how to intubate and perform CPR.”

Chief Executive at Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, Kim Conchie, delivered a talk to students about business in the county and the benefits of being part of the Cornish workforce. “Students were amazed at how many opportunities there are here in Cornwall post-University” commented Mrs Gellatly. “With so many businesses and organisations involved, our Careers Fair inspires students of all interests and abilities. Our Fair highlighted the aspirations of our students as they interacted with various employers from the Military, Law, Engineering and Medical sectors to name just a few.”

According to Engineering UK, 265,000 skilled entrants are needed annually to meet the demand for engineering enterprises until 2024. “We’re showcasing to students just how fascinating the STEM subjects can be, how they touch every part of our lives and to inspire our next generation of Cornish innovators.”

Feedback from students indicated that the Fair opened their eyes to new possibilities.

Evangeline White commented; “It was such an incredible day and I really enjoyed meeting all the different organisations – I now have so many exciting ideas about what I’d like to do after Sixth Form!”

Logan Hotton commented; “A particular highlight for me was speaking to 3D Kernow, a company who print 3D objects which were amazing – I didn’t realise we did that in Cornwall!”

“Our fair highlighted how fast-moving and exciting the world of work can be” said Mrs Gellatly. “We are keen to promote the range of opportunities the labour market can provide young people in Cornwall. There is an increase in growth of STEM industries and we are thrilled to be working with Stuart Moore, Head of Spacecraft Operations from Avanti Communications as our new Enterprise Advisor. The opportunities, advice and guidance that he will be able to offer, are going to be immensely beneficial.”

Participating organisations included: Avanti Communications; Devon & Cornwall Constabulary, National Citizenship Service, Careers 4 U, Children’s Hospice South West, Provenance Foods, DBS Music, Cornwall College, Duchy College, Dynamo Healthcare, Get In Cornwall, Coachmakers, 3D Kernow, Software Cornwall, Falmouth Business School, University of Falmouth, Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, RAF, Royal Navy/ Marines, The Army, University of Exeter, Coodes Solicitors, Next Steps Cornwall, Plymouth University Medical Dental, EBP, RG Kellow Ltd and CITB.

“Students have discovered careers that they did not even know existed. Not only did they put their networking skills into action, they have forged connections with potential employers which is incredibly valuable” said Mrs Gellatly. “PSHE and Citizenship days are specifically designed to support our students in preparing them for safer, well-informed futures and we’re looking forward to exploring the links that were made at the Fair as we continue with our careers programme.”

Principal at CSIA, Ian Kenworthy, commented “We’re proud to be driving young people’s interest not only in the STEM subjects but also the wide range of other incredible career options available. The event involved over 800 CSIA students and over 30 organisations and businesses which made for a very compelling day. It’s so important to encourage young people to turn to the STEM sector as we move forward and continue to grow as a country. We’re delighted to be playing our part in the Year of Engineering.”

 

Charlie Hustwayte taking on a wiring task.

 

Students in Year 7 race their model cars as part of the STEM-focused PHSE day.

 

Lucas Norman and Ewan Davies with the Devon & Cornwall Police.

 

Sam Clargo taking the opportunity to ride a Virtual Reality rollercoaster at the Nexus stand in the Careers Fair.

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