In the UK, we have a fantastic engineering heritage, yet we are constantly challenged to find enough highly skilled engineers to drive business innovation.
At one time or another, we have all been guilty of downplaying the importance of engineering and falling back on outdated perceptions of it as a dirty, grimy, physically demanding industry. That academic ability in maths and science is crucial, with creativity and innovative thinking falling by the wayside. But for this to change, we need to start influencing children before these stereotypes can become ingrained.
That is why Nippon Gases is delighted to continue its partnership with Primary Engineer, a not-for-profit educational organisation whose vision is to inspire children from an early age to become designers and makers - the engineers of the future.
Nippon Gases' support does not end there; mentors from Nippon Gases are on hand to work with the teachers in their classrooms to deliver the engineering curriculum, and they have pledged to provide the schools with vehicle kits for the next two years.
Nippon Gases is also a national partner of Primary Engineer's unique annual competition 'If you were an engineer, what would you do?' Open to students aged 3-19, the competition asks children what problem they would like to solve. Through interviews with engineering professionals and their own experiences, children design solutions to everyday problems.
It is often difficult to describe what engineering is, let alone how to become an engineer. The competition encourages children to use creative problem-solving while developing their listening, reading and observation skills, as well as illustrating with annotations and writing letters for a purpose. It teaches them to ask questions about careers by giving them access to engineers and making working environments accessible.
About Primary Engineer
Primary Engineer is an educational not-for-profit organisation that provides programs to encourage children from 3 to 19 years to consider STEM and engineering careers. It was founded in 2005 by Susan Scurlock MBE to inspire young children to achieve their potential, engage with education and be motivated by engineering.
Primary Engineer have developed an engineering curriculum that spans Primary, Secondary and Further Education institutions. It's core aims include; the development of children and young people through engagement with engineering, the promotion of engineering careers through inspiring programs and competitions, the development of engineering skills for teachers and practitioners addressing the inequalities in engineering.
https://www.primaryengineer.com/
More information: info@primaryengineer.com