Inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators

Dorset schoolchildren were given special access to the county’s only Enterprise Zone to get a taste of what a future career in innovation could offer them.

The group of Year 5 pupils from Southill Primary School, Weymouth took part in an educational adventure at the Dorset Innovation Park.

Organised by Dorset Council, the eye-opening trip aimed to ignite curiosity, inspire young minds, and promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) careers.

During their trip, the children visited the UK’s Defence BattleLab and delved into cutting-edge technology and innovation.

They took part in a range of activities aimed at sparking their curiosity, problem solving and innovative thinking.

Dorset Council’s cabinet member for economic growth, Cllr Richard Biggs, said: “I hope we were able to give the children a flavour of the exciting careers available on their doorstep.

“Dorset Council is committed to nurturing local talent and fostering innovation. Who knows, maybe some of the pupils will work at the innovation park in the future using technologies like robotics, artificial intelligence, machine learning or quantum computing.”

In what proved to be a fun-packed event, the Southill pupils took part in three STEM activities.

They explored the world of gaming through a Roblox player-made game called ‘Obbys’. In this activity the children designed an obstacle course, which was displayed on a huge multi-screen wall.

The children then played an egg and spoon game with a twist – they had to control a segway robot holding the egg and get it through an obstacle course.

And then Dorset Innovation Park-based business Atlas Elektronik UK challenged the children to a ‘sink or float’ game.

The youngsters had to design a vessel from plasticine that would float and could hold coins.

Southill Primary School Headteacher, Paul Mason, said: “Our pupils thoroughly enjoyed their visit to the Dorset Innovation Park and have not stopped talking about it back in school.

“They loved the different activities and were able to build their teamwork skills while using some of the exciting technology available.

“The pupils gave great thought to what it means to be innovative and the visit encouraged some very real enthusiasm about the possibilities of working in STEM industries.”