Toyota UK will open its doors to local schools as part of the Government’s “See inside Manufacturing” initiative to give young people an idea of what it would be like to work in industry.
Young people across Wales and Cheshire will be able to explore Toyota UK’s engine plant in Deeside, North Wales as part of the plan to show off modern manufacturing and the range of careers available in the sector.
The initiative, which was launched in March 2011 by Business Secretary Vince Cable, aims to challenge perceptions that manufacturing in the UK is only about wearing greasy overalls in dirty factories.
There is a push from government to improve the image of the sector by rejecting outdated opinions in an attempt to encourage more young people to take up science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects, in order to plug the skills gap.
Over 300 students from schools and colleges across Wales and Cheshire will visit the plant throughout June and July, twice the number that attended last year. They will take part in a guided tour of the manufacturing plant including training facilities, casting plant and assembly lines.
Students will hear presentations from apprentices, engineers and staff covering all aspects of engine manufacture. They will also take part in a number of hands-on workshops hosted by Toyota’s partner, science discovery centre Techniquest Glyndwr University.
Business Minister Mark Prisk said: “See Inside Manufacturing is about changing perceptions of modern manufacturing and showing young people, teachers and careers advisers that the industry offers interesting and rewarding job opportunities.”
Tony Walker, Toyota UK deputy managing director, said that the firm hopes to promote greater recognition of manufacturing to the UK economy.
