Westminster City Council is delighted to celebrate British Science Week with a series of events exploring how science is fundamental to economic growth whilst at the same time providing students with worthwhile and rewarding career paths.
The week was held in partnership with Victoria Business Improvement District (BID), and a range of events involving 400 students from schools across Westminster who came together with local businesses to look at how science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) are key to improving technology in the workplace.
Events included:
• The major employer Transport for London brought its technology and data team to meet students to show how travel scenarios can bring Maths, Computing and Geography curriculum to life.
• Students went on a site visit to Multiplex’s new 10-storey residential development in Holborn and had the opportunity to see scientific, engineering and technical principles applied to the building. They also spoke to the engineers involved in the development.
• A Construction and Technology Careers Day was organised by Land Sec, where students got the chance to learn from professionals working for some of the UK’s leading technology, construction and transport companies, such as Network Rail, Alstom, BT and Sir Robert McAlpine.
Increased employer engagement with young people is key in influencing the next generation of professional engineers, technicians, designers and innovators. The number of job opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields is expected to increase significantly in the UK; although studies show that engagement with maths and science declines by 74 per cent among girls and 56 per cent among boys during secondary school.
Emma Taylor, Head of All through Science at King Solomon Academy said: “The workshops delivered by Transport for London encouraged students to think that any idea could lead to new innovations, the workshops also exposed pupils to careers they may have never considered.”
Cllr Richard Holloway, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Young People said: “British Science Week is a great opportunity for students to meet with Westminster businesses and experience how science, technology and engineering feature in our city.
“This year we want to continue to build on the strong links between our schools, colleges and the local business community to help inspire the young people of Westminster to consider the STEM opportunities and careers available to them right in the heart of Westminster.”
Ruth Duston, chief executive, Victoria BID, said: “We are delighted to work with Westminster City Council again in supporting British Science Week this year. The Victoria Business Improvement District very much supports the learning and development offer to these students to attend briefings and workshops from businesses within these sectors to showcase STEM prospects for their futures. It appears that British Science Week 2018 will be a great success and we look forward to continuing to grow and support this project for local young people.”
Last updated: 29 June 2018