This partnership is designed to ensure that students ensures that students have access to a seamless pathway from school to future careers in engineering by understanding the skills and knowledge needed to succeed.
Holderness Academy students will have the opportunity to take part in a series of events which combine interactive activities with talks from industry professionals and former students.
Employer Talk
Industry professionals will share insights into engineering careers, skills in demand, and future industry trends. The talk is designed to inspire students to pursue STEM careers while highlighting the importance of problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation. This event reflects the strong collaboration between Wilberforce and HA in preparing students for the future.
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Year Group:
Year 9
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When:
Wednesday 26 February 2025
1pm - 3pm -
Where:
Wilberforce Sixth Form College
Pathway Session
This session focuses on the importance of early career planning. Students will learn how mapping out future career paths can help them make informed decisions about their education and training options. Examples include pathways into mechanical engineering, civil engineering, software development, and renewable energy fields. Coaching groups will be led by first and second-year students.
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Year Group:
Year 10
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When:
Wednesday 14 May 2025
1pm - 3pm -
Where:
Wilberforce Sixth Form College
Apprenticeship and Student Success Talk
A motivational session featuring an former Wilberforce and HA student who has excelled in their engineering career. Students will gain insights into apprenticeships, workplace expectations, and tips for success. Examples of pathways include roles in aerospace engineering, robotics, and automotive design. Wilberforce engineering students will facilitate a Q&A session to ensure students leave with actionable advice.
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Year Group:
Year 10
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When:
Wednesday 11 June 2025
1pm - 3pm -
Where:
Wilberforce Sixth Form College
Presence at Careers Fairs
Dedicated liaison staff from Wilberforce will showcase engineering opportunities, sharing one-on-one guidance, answer questions and discuss skills valued by employers. This event invites students to be introduced to their post-16 options, career opportunities and the partnership between Wilberforce Sixth Form College and Holderness Academy, enabling students to develop their understanding and insights into the engineering sector.
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Year Group:
All year groups
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When:
Throughout the academic year and during the school day
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Where:
Holderness Academy
Interactive Activities
SUPERGRID
- Description: Students compete in teams to design the most efficient turbine blade. Final designs are tested for voltage output, integrating knowledge of aerodynamics, airflow, materials science, and physics. Participants will gain practical engineering design experience, applying core concepts in a hands-on environment.
- Facilitation: Activities will be guided by first and second-year engineering students, offering mentorship and technical guidance.
- Employer-Relevant Skills: Teamwork, problem-solving, critical thinking, and application of STEM principles.
- Linked Careers: Renewable energy engineer (typical salary: £40,000 - £60,000), mechanical design engineer (typical salary: £35,000 - £50,000), and environmental consultant (typical salary: £30,000 - £45,000).
PROGRAMMING AND BUILDING ROBOTS
- Description: Students will program and build robots, learning about automation, robotics systems, and engineering design. Teams will compete to complete a set of tasks, showcasing their technical creativity.
- Facilitation: Guided by senior Wilberforce students, who will ensure a practical and interactive experience for all participants.
- Employer-Relevant Skills: Coding, systems thinking, adaptability, and teamwork.
- Linked Careers: Robotics engineer (typical salary: £45,000 - £70,000), software developer (typical salary: £30,000 - £50,000), and automation specialist (typical salary: £40,000 - £60,000).
HYDROGEN CARS
- Description: Teams will construct model hydrogen-powered cars and race them. Students will apply their understanding of hydrogen energy, its behaviour under varying conditions, and engineering schematics to complete the challenge successfully.
- Facilitation: Wilberforce engineering students will mentor participants, offering support with construction and troubleshooting.
- Employer-Relevant Skills: Technical drawing interpretation, innovation, practical application of energy principles, and collaboration.
- Linked Careers: Automotive engineer (typical salary: £45,000 - £60,000), energy systems engineer (typical salary: £40,000 - £55,000), and sustainability consultant (typical salary: £30,000 - £50,000).
JOINT MILLING PROJECT
- Description: Students will participate in a hands-on milling activity, learning about precision engineering and the importance of manufacturing processes. They will create a small project component under guidance.
- Facilitation: Senior students will assist with machine operation and ensure safety and learning outcomes.
- Employer-Relevant Skills: Attention to detail, machine operation, and an understanding of manufacturing processes.
- Linked Careers: CNC machinist (typical salary: £25,000 - £40,000), manufacturing engineer (typical salary: £35,000 - £50,000), and product designer (typical salary: £30,000 - £50,000).
Where can I go after college?
- University Degrees: Engineering disciplines such as mechanical, civil, or aerospace engineering.
- Apprenticeships: Opportunities in fields like renewable energy, automotive design, and precision manufacturing.
- Technical Training Programmes: Specialised training in robotics, programming, and advanced manufacturing.
Planning your future career early allows you to:
- Align your academic choices with career aspirations.
- Build relevant skills and gain early exposure to industry expectations.
- Make informed decisions about post-secondary education and training.
- Set clear, actionable goals to stay motivated and focused.
