STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) and HSS (Health and Social Science) careers are more in demand than ever before and inspiring students from a young age is key to building their aspirations to participate in higher education.

On Monday 15 and Tuesday 16 July, the University welcomed hundreds of Key Stage 3 students to its Luton campus to take part in a day of interactive sessions aimed at encouraging young people to consider future jobs in the sciences and health professions.

The University worked closely with their own academics, researchers and industry contacts to host an exciting and varied day that promoted higher education and encourages young people to think about their future.

The young people took part in academic and industry sessions addressing higher education and careers in STEM and HSS.

Sessions were held in the Postgraduate and Centre Campus buildings throughout the day and included a Robotics workshop with Amy Nicholson from Microsoft, a Computer Science talk with Martin Beeby from Amazon, Engineering with RS Components, a STEM Escape Room Challenge, plus a Life Sciences workshop and a talk on Occupational Health from University of Bedfordshire academics.

Roisin Kendall, Access Partnership Manager for the Centre of Academic Partnerships, said: “The University of Bedfordshire are so excited to welcome so many students, schools and businesses to our campus, especially as we are about to open our new £40 million STEM building in September. 

“STEM courses are so important to the University and we would like to inspire the next generations of future scientists, engineers, mathematicians, pharmacists, optometrists and other new careers.

“We welcome the opportunity to work with our local schools to ensure fair access to university and help students make the best decisions for their future.”

Working alongside Luton Borough Council to target high schools in low participating neighbourhoods, this event is just one of the outreach projects the University is involved with as part of their commitment to creating opportunities for young people in Luton and supporting them to develop the skills and knowledge they need for their future careers.

In September 2019, the University will be opening a brand new £40m STEM building with floors dedicated to Engineering, Computer Science, Health subjects and Life Sciences.

The building will incorporate a public outreach facility, enabling the University of Bedfordshire to continue to work closely with local schools and colleges to promote careers in sciences and health and widen the access to higher education for all.