The first session of the new Widening Participation program, ‘STEM Up’, launched on 22nd April 2021! Kicked off with an inspiring introduction from Professor David Smith, Undergraduate Dean in the Faculty of Science, where he discussed the importance of STEM subjects and the relevance of them in today’s world, it was followed by an academic talk from Dr Irina Lazar from the Faculty of Engineering. Participants had received materials in the post a couple of weeks before the launch that allowed them to complete a Tower-Building Challenge and send pictures of their completed towers in. The entries were fantastic – Irina was really impressed by the strength and design of the towers – some even managed to hold potatoes and watermelons!
Participants enjoyed interacting with the staff during these sessions and having their questions about life at the University of Bristol answered, before splitting into Science or Engineering breakout rooms where they met student ambassadors and did some ice breaker activities in small groups.
We’re all looking forward to seeing the participants back for the next 4 weeks, with academic sessions run by staff from the Science and Engineering Faculties as well as sessions covering student societies, next steps and alumni and student visitors.
Find out more about our Science and Engineering outreach programmes and events here! This video gives you a taste of one of our other Engineering outreach programmes – Digimakers