Warwick University hosted the Girls into Engineering residential course this month, where almost 100 Year 9 girls learned about engineering through presentations and practical workshops.
The course was organised by engineering charity Smallpeice Trust, and supported by a number of national companies including the ERA Foundation, GE, Transport for London, and more.
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Students were introduced to basic engineering principles through a weighted bridge ice-breaker challenge, and then in their teams, were tasked with creating one of a variety of projects, including:
- Creating an off-road vehicle to travel a pre-determined course
- Designing a train and a railway station
- Building a cable car to transport chickpeas
The girls were guided through all stages of product development with the support of engineers, from the initial concept to final testing. They were also faced with real-world challenges such as the need to work within a budget and make the project commercially viable.
One of the girls that took part said: “When faced with tough engineering problems it’s nice to think normal people like me can actually do that.”
Emma Culey, education officer at the Smallpeice Trust, said: “Challenging projects were led by some of the biggest names in the engineering industry, for which we are very grateful. All credit to the students on the course as they all embraced the opportunity and showed extreme dedication and enthusiasm to their projects and the course as a whole.”
More information about the Smallpeice Trust is available at www.smallpeicetrust.org.uk