The initiative, funded by the Government’s Regional Skills Pilot, aims to help young people explore science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) by providing practical activities. Six workshops were delivered by Lab Rascals, an independent science outreach business founded in 2012, which works with schools and community groups across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.
Sessions included a LEGOTM Wind Energy workshop, where year 5 and 6 students had the opportunity to act as engineers for the morning and meet industry professionals. Alongside the workshops, North East Lincolnshire Council also provided 15 kits for local classrooms.
“"Living so close to one of the UK’s major offshore wind hubs, young people in North East Lincolnshire have some fantastic career opportunities on their doorstep. At Lab Rascals, we want to show children that science and engineering aren’t just subjects they study at school. Through our workshops, they become engineers for the morning, building wind turbines and generating electricity to power their LEGO cars. Hopefully, we’re inspiring some of the next generation of scientists and engineers and showing children that these careers really are within their reach."
Feedback from schools indicated that the sessions helped children connect their learning with the world around them. Healing Primary Academy noted that "students were engaged in discussions about the local industry and the benefits it brings to the area," while Reynolds Academy praised the practical, hands-on explanations that connected to local careers.
These activities are part of wider efforts through the Regional Skills Pilot to raise awareness of energy careers and opportunities in North East Lincolnshire. By introducing children to science, engineering, and the local energy industry early on, the council hopes to show them how their school subjects can lead to exciting future careers.
Amy Rogers, Head of Skills at North East Lincolnshire Council, emphasised the importance of early engagement: “We know that it is incredibly important to engage young people as early as possible with real life examples of how science, technology and maths can translate into well paid careers. North East Lincolnshire has some fantastic opportunities, and we are really pleased the children had fun whilst learning about them.”
