Big Bang day engineers science fun for pupils

More than 1,000 secondary pupils from schools across Kent swapped the classroom for a day of interactive fun at Discovery Park in Sandwich.

The Big Bang was organised by Kent and Medway STEM – an organisation run by Canterbury Christ Church University encouraging young people in science, technology, engineering and maths – and brought companies and educators together.

From medicine making, with balloons as replica molecules, to making waves with maths and a water tank, there was plenty going on to fire the imagination and to get across how important STEM subjects are to modern life.

Other challenges ranged from identifying animals from their skulls, skin and waste, to an interactive introduction to careers in space.

There was even a Who Wants To Be An Engineer quiz where prizes where awarded. Children were also invited to experiment with chemiluminescent glow sticks and magnetic rocks.

Kimberley Anderson, corporate relations manager for Discovery Park, said: “Education and providing opportunities for young people is vital to ensuring the future success not only of Discovery Park, but for east Kent’s position as one of the world’s leading centres for science, technology and enterprise.

“This is just one example of where we are supporting and educating the next generation, encouraging them to study in a fun environment. It provides a vibrant opportunity to inspire the hundreds of students, and if we can inspire just a few, then we feel like we’ve been successful.

“We are committed to working closely with Kent and Medway STEM, providing opportunities and inspiration for the next generation.

“This event is a great example of that and thanks must go to all the companies, including many of our tenants, who took part in what was again a fantastic day.”