Inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers

Exploring the brain, science experiments and lectures on earthquakes, tsunamis and asteroids were some of the topics on the timetable for a group of sixth-formers when they swapped their classrooms for the University's campus earlier this week.

Around 400 students from St David's Catholic Sixth Form were given a taste of higher education thanks to a new partnership with Cardiff University.

The STEM Conference, organised as part RCUK Universities Schools Partnership Initiative , It was designed to give students a fresh perspective and inspire them about the impact science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) has on the world.

The schedule for the day consisted of talks, practical sessions, exhibitions and hands-on workshops. The students also received advice on applying for university places and the wide variety of career opportunities offered in this field.

Activities included talks on earthquakes and tsunamis, the risks from asteroids, practical workshops on wind power, lectures on what you can do with a Raspberry Pi - a credit-card sized computer that plugs into your TV and a keyboard -, the mathematics of Game Theory, interactive workshops on exploring the brain, practical experiments in chemistry as well as getting an insight into what life is like as an undergraduate.

Professor Karen Holford, Pro Vice-Chancellor for College of Physical Sciences and Engineering said: "Events like this bring science and technology to life. We want to inspire young people to engage with STEM subjects and working in partnership with institutions like St David's is a great way to do this."

Hilary Griffiths, Assistant Principal at St David's College added: "We are extremely grateful for the support and advice that we are receiving from the University and we look forward to planning many more joint events in the future."

Sue Diment, Schools Partnership Project Officer said " It is great to see partnership working first hand.  The STEM Conference was just an idea a few months ago and the University and St David College have worked hard together to design and deliver an exciting and engaging programme.  It was a fun and inspirational day for all and great event to be involved in developing."