A UNIQUE BMW Model Engine Marvels workshop at Bradford College has inspired the next generation of engineers and innovators.
The Leap, in partnership with Mission 44, Bradford College, and Bradford Council, held a fascinating event aimed at inquisitive local Year 10 & 11 students. It took place at Bradford College’s Trinity Green campus.
In practical, hands-on sessions, students built model engines and learnt from Bradford College lecturers about where an interest in engines could take them in the future. Two female students from the College also took part.
Battery-powered working models of a 4-cylinder engine demonstrated how a combustion engine works and fundamental operating principles and functions. The groups also learned more about mechanical systems and engineering.
Founded by Sir Lewis Hamilton, Mission 44 is a charitable foundation that supports organisations and leaders to reimagine the future and empower young people from under served communities. Projects and events like this aim to encourage an inclusive education system, open doors to careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and empower young people to become a force for change.
Asa Gordon, Vice Principal for Curriculum at Bradford College, said: “This event aimed to ignite a passion for engineering, automotive technology, and careers in STEM and motorsports. We must encourage more local talent into exciting and rewarding STEM careers to fill critical skills gaps in the industry. Attracting diverse professionals is crucial for building the workforce of tomorrow.”
Sabir Musaji, Community Development Manager at The Leap, added: “Can I give a massive thanks for what was a really productive, well-organised, and engaging workshop. It was made superb by everyone’s efforts and the feedback from young people was just amazing to hear.”
Bradford College also works with Mission44 to support ethnic minority and female applicants into STEM apprenticeship roles within under-represented industries, such as motorsports and engineering. There are bursaries available for apprentices, as well as incentive payments for employers.
* Find out more about apprenticeships and other full and part-time courses across STEM-related subjects, including Sciences, Construction, Maths, and Engineering.
Visit bradfordcollege.ac.uk for more details or contact the Apprenticeship team on (01274) 728316.
BRADFORD College recently welcomed a number of important visitors, including the Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin.
After a talk from the Senior Leadership Team, the Mayor enjoyed a tour of the David Hockney Building and met students hard at work. Keen to champion the College’s multi-million-pound capital projects investment, Tracy said: "It's not only a brilliant building but what fantastic students and staff! The outcomes I've heard have been fantastic. You can see the ambition of the College, which is also translated to the students, with the aim to transform their lives and get them into great careers."
The College also hosted a visit from Bradford Council leader Susan Hinchcliffe and 12 other councillors. The group met with T Level students in new College facilities and heard more about redevelopments taking place for students who enrol at Bradford College from 2024.
TWO Bradford College Saturday Art Clubs for both Film & Screen and Art & Design are aimed at 13 to 16-year-olds wanting to explore skills in media and film-making or the arts.
Using hands-on practical sessions in the Bradford School of Art Lister Building, the national initiative is free of charge. y joining a Saturday Club (10am-12pm), young people are given an opportunity to learn skills, meet new people and discover subjects they love. The Film & Screen Saturday Club explores scriptwriting, directing, acting, editing, cinematography, storytelling and technical aspects of filmmaking. The Art & Design Saturday Club unpicks printmaking, fashion and textiles, photography and digital skills. At Saturday Art Club, young people strengthen basic skills as well as discovering new artistic practices they may not have tried before. To find out more visit saturday-club.org and search for Bradford.
BRADFORD College is using its expertise in emerging technologies to partner with Bradford Council and shape training programmes around key priorities.
Stephen Smith, Bradford College Head of Department for Construction & Engineering, said: “I am delighted that our Construction & Engineering department is meeting and exceeding the current and future skills requirements of Bradford Council.
"As a major employer in our region, it is crucial we work closely to ensure our curriculum aligns with their needs both today and in the years ahead.”
The College will soon be delivering Level 1 Hydrogen Vehicle training as the Council continues its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. This kind of training exemplifies how Bradford College is evolving with the industry.
Stephen continued: “I'm proud of the strong partnership we've built with Bradford Council.
"By listening to their challenges and goals, we can develop a skilled local workforce ready to meet their needs.
"This will not only benefit our graduates' careers but support the Council in providing quality public services to our community."
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