BAE Systems today launched its 2011 Schools Roadshow in London, joined by the Royal Air Force, Blue Peter's Andy Akinwolere and a robot called Brains.
The engineering-based theatre show, now in its sixth year, aims to engage and inspire 25,000 school children in 250 UK schools about science and engineering in 2011.
Hosted by BAE Systems’ robot character Brains, the roadshow consists of a live performance followed by two workshops: one challenging kids to programme a Lego Mindstorm vehicle; the other, delivered by the Royal Air Force, looks at examples of biomimicry.
Nigel Whitehead, group managing director at BAE Systems, said: “The Schools Roadshow is a key element of our Skills 2020 programme which aims to ensure BAE Systems and the wider engineering community have the right skills to operate successfully in 2020. It’s crucial for the UK’s economic wellbeing that more young people choose careers in science, engineering, technology and maths. We’re particularly pleased to be working with the Royal Air Force as we share many of the same objectives in protecting the UK’s pipeline of engineering talent.”
Air Vice Marshal Simon Bollom, Director Combat Air, added: “Having a career as an engineer in the UK Royal Air Force allows you to work in locations across the world. Looking after some of the most technologically advanced aircraft requires the very best in engineering talent. The Schools Roadshow is designed to inspire and encourage young people to consider the incredible opportunities that are open to them in these specialist fields.”
Funny and interesting, the show (that also features an engineering take of the song ‘Don’t Stop Believing’) was followed by a brief speech by Blue Peter presenter Andy Akinwolere. “Today has been fascinating for me! The roadshow makes the connections between science and everyday life and brings home why engineering is so important. It’s been great to watch it in action,” he said.
