Primary pupils learn about steel-making during visit to Institute
The Materials Processing Institute is helping to inspire future generations of budding scientists and researchers by opening its doors to a group of primary pupils from Hemlington Hall Academy in Middlesbrough.
As part of the “Mighty Metals” topic, pupils took part in science-based activities linked to steel-making and industrial research, to complement the curriculum areas covering forces and magnets, properties of metals and measuring.
Among the activities was a temperature test using hot chips from the Institute's canteen and trying on safety equipment, including specialist protective suits. They also visited laboratories where they performed experiments with the Institute's Small Tundish Model, which uses water to replicate the flow of hot steel.
More than 40 Year Three pupils and eight members of staff visited MPI, which is an Open Access Technology Centre and world leader of research and development, working with materials, materials processing and energy sectors.
Chris McDonald, Chief Executive of Materials Processing Institute, said: “It’s great to have the opportunity to inspire young people and hopefully ignite a spark of interest in industry. In many respects we are shaping the future with our research and development of materials and technology, and its particularly rewarding if we can do the same for young people.
“The Institute is keen to play a role in the education community locally and further afield and, in addition to this school visit, also has strong links with several universities with students regularly undertaking projects at our facility.
“It is vital to engage with the education system at all levels to highlight the importance of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects to ensure they have the information and opportunity to consider stem-based careers.”
Joanne Warner, teacher at Hemlington Hall, said: “We were all very excited about our visit to the Materials Processing Institute. We enjoyed some fantastic activities and gained first hand insight into science and industry that links well with our curriculum. I believe this experience has left a wonderful impression on the children.”
16 March 2016
