Technology/Engineering Activities
(Alex Burns)

Technology/Engineering Roadshows

Several local companies provide 'hands-on' technological/engineering activities for pupils in a school's technology department. Pupils work through the activities in small groups with the support of company personnel. The Roadshows usually operate for 1 or 2 days so that the maximum number of pupils can benefit and the activity can be targeted at particular aspects of the technology curriculum.

Technology Tree

Promoted by the Engineering Employers Federation, this programme aims to develop design and technology through links with local engineering/manufacturing companies. The main components of the Technology Tree programme are:

• A teacher placement in a company to develop an appropriate technology-related project;
• A visit to the company by the pupils so that they can be briefed about the project;
• Project activity back in school with help and support from the company;
• Presentation of project outcomes by the pupils to the link company personnel.

Young Engineers' Challenges

Local universities or colleges set an engineering challenge, which involves design and manufacture. The challenge culminates in a competition where awards are given for the most innovative answer to the problem.

Company Visits

Walsall EBP can arrange for small groups of students to visit local companies as a support for the technology curriculum. Suitable for any year group, visits are tailor-made following a meeting with the relevant teacher.

This service includes identifying and briefing a company, arranging a suitable time and completing all Health and Safety checks but does not include transport.

Walsall EBP is supported by Black Country Learning and Skills Council, European Social Fund, Walsall Council, Walsall Strategic Partnership and Walsall Housing Group.