On Tuesday, 18th March, a group of Year 10 and Year 11 pupils had the opportunity to visit WEC Academy in Darwen for an engaging and informative taster morning. The trip was organised by Mr. Hargreaves, Head of Physics, and Mrs. Powell, Head of Careers, providing pupils with a firsthand experience of the world of engineering apprenticeships.
During the visit, Edd Belshaw, WEC’s Engineering Academy’s Group Apprenticeship Coordinator, spoke to the pupils about the wide range of engineering apprenticeships available to them after they complete their GCSEs. This session provided invaluable insight into potential career paths and the skills required for various engineering roles.
One of the highlights of the morning was a tour of WEC Academy’s impressive facilities, including the welding and fabrication workshop. The pupils were shown where they could be working if they pursued a career there, getting a real sense of the hands-on nature of the trade and the advanced tools and machinery used in the industry.
In addition to the tour, the pupils had the chance to participate in a practical “chocolate challenge.” In this fun, yet educational activity, students were tasked with building a strong structure using chocolate that could withstand the most weight. The challenge encouraged creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking, all essential skills for future engineers.
The morning also provided a unique opportunity for the pupils to experience welding through virtual reality equipment, giving them a glimpse into the technology and techniques used in modern engineering practices.
Overall, the visit to WEC Academy was a resounding success. The pupils left feeling motivated and inspired by the possibilities available to them in the field of engineering, with many expressing a renewed interest in pursuing apprenticeships after their GCSEs. The experience was not only informative but also a valuable opportunity for them to gain practical knowledge and insight into the world of engineering.
