Deeside school kids discover the fun side of technology at TeenTech

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TV personality Dallas Campbell recently hosted the Airbus-sponsored Teen Tech event at Coleg Cambria in Connah’s Quay aimed at encouraging school kids to think about science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) careers.

Around 260 year 8 students from schools across North Wales and Cheshire participated in TeenTech, where they were given the opportunity to test out the latest in cutting edge technology, participate in a number of practical experiments and meet professional scientists, technologists and engineers.

A number of businesses also supported the event, each hosting a stand in either the challenge zone, where students got involved with a variety of hands-on activities, or the insight zone where the youngsters were treated to a range of interactive demonstrations including the Airbus Wing Academy which demonstrates how wings give lift to aircraft.

Commenting on the Airbus insight stand, 12-year-old Ethan Ellis from Hawarden High School said, “It was very interesting. My favourite part was the wind tunnel and learning about wings.” His classmate, James MacGregor added, “I liked seeing how all the planes work and finding out about how air resistance and drag affects the way a plane flies.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mp_carousel_1 carousel_images=”39588,39587,39586,39585,39584,39583,39582,39589″ carousel_start=”false”][vc_column_text]Ben Griffiths, a year 8 pupil from Christleton High School who participated in the day’s activities said, “I think it’s a good opportunity to learn about science and technology.” The 12-year-old tech enthusiast added, “It’s really helpful having people from these areas explain about things like robotics and virtual reality.”

“I enjoy TeenTech because it showcases just how creative kids are.” explained host Dallas Campbell. “They come up with some crazy and bonkers ideas, but they’re always interesting. It’s also good for them to meet people in industry from fields, such as physics, biology and engineering and it’s a great opportunity for the companies involved too.”

Community Relations Manager at Airbus Broughton, Phil McGraa said, “As a manufacturer, TeenTech is a great event for Airbus to be involved with as we hope to inspire the next generation of scientists, technologists and engineers. This is the third time we have sponsored TeenTech in North Wales and thanks to the hard work of our ambassadors – and the enthusiasm of everyone who participated in the event – its proven to be a another huge success.”

TeenTech was founded in 2008 by technology journalist and television presenter, Maggie Philbin (Tomorrow’s World, Bang Goes the Theory) to promote STEM subjects among teenagers.

Specifically, the event aims to dispel gender stereotypes and change young people’s perceptions of these subjects which are often considered ‘boring’ or ‘difficult’. The day’s activities not only engage young people in STEM-based learning, but also encourage them to consider future career opportunities in the industry.

In 2010, TeenTech received the award for ‘Best Engineering Event’ during National Science and Engineering week by the British Science Association. Since 2013, HRH Duke of York has been a patron of the event and hosts the annual TeenTech awards at Buckingham Palace.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]