A group of young pupils have been putting their creativity and engineering skills to the test – designing and manufacturing their own metal creations in a hands-on introduction to the world of technology.
Year 7 students from Stover School have completed their first term of Design and Technology sessions delivered in partnership with South Devon University Technical College (UTC), which is part of Education South West.
The programme introduced students to engineering concepts, computer-aided design and practical manufacturing skills through a series of practical workshops.
During the sessions, pupils designed their own pewter keyrings using computer-aided design software before pouring molten metal into moulds to form their creations.
They also completed finishing processes including cutting, filing, soldering and polishing to produce fully functioning desk balance toys to take home.
The sessions were delivered by Will Bent, head of the engineering faculty at South Devon UTC, and supported by UTC students.
Claire Plumb, headteacher at South Devon UTC, said: “The first ever cohort of Year 7 Design and Technology students from Stover have been a real pleasure to work with.
“They have embraced every challenge, from using computer design software to making their pewter keyrings, and the excitement and pride they showed in their finished projects was as precious as gold dust.”
The partnership between the two schools will continue next term, when a new group of pupils will begin the sessions.
Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: “We are proud of the partnership between South Devon UTC and Stover School, which is giving students a fantastic opportunity to experience hands-on engineering and design.
“The UTC’s expertise and support are helping these students develop skills, confidence and a real passion for STEM at an early stage.”
