Hundreds of schoolchildren descend on RAF Cosford
Hundreds of schoolchildren from across the West Midlands took part in the Big Bang event at RAF Museum Cosford.
The event aims to excite, educate and stimulate young people about opportunities within Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (Stem) – inspiring them to consider future careers in these fields.
The Big Bang is the UK's largest science and engineering event for young people aged seven to 19, and offers students the opportunity to experience hands-on learning outside of the classroom.
Stem-based companies, industries and educational institutions offered workshops and shows for the students throughout the day, which saw about 1,000
primary and secondary school students and teachers taking part.
James Silcox, event organiser said: "This was a unique event aiming to inspire the next generation of young scientists and engineers with the Stem careers and opportunities available in the Armed Forces and emergency services.
The event took place in the museum's National Cold War Exhibition set against a backdrop of aircraft and artefacts.
Philip Clayton, RAF Museum Cosford education manager, said: "This is the largest educational event we will be holding this year and hopefully the most rewarding for learners of all ages involved in science, technology, engineering and maths."
She added: Pat McCarthy, head of religion, philosophy and cultural heritage at the University of Wolverhampton said: "Events like this are great and specifically for recruiting more females in engineering and technology.
"There is a stigma that Stem isn't very feminine and that is completely untrue. The types of engineering are so varied nowadays girls needn't feel un equal or any less feminine. Female creativity is what's needed in engineering."
