Aberdeen-based AFBE-UK Scotland recently led an innovative teaching programme to inspire would-be engineers.
From mock-up’s of the ‘Pigging Model’ to entire deep sea platforms – pupils as young as seven and eight were exposed to the complexities of the oil and gas industry.
At Walker Road School in Torry, Primary 5 and 6 classes learned how to make helipads out of paper-mâché and use Lego pieces to build ROV vehicles through AFBE-UK Scotland’s Next Gen Programme.
Taking a practical approach to spark enthusiasm for the field of engineering, the programme encourages more young people to consider a career path in the sector.
Aberdeen council’s Education convener Councillor Angela Taylor said: “Helping pupils to help them understand the exciting industry on their doorstep and to create aspirations at such a young age is a fantastic approach from AFBE-UK.
“This programme will not only inspire a new generation of industry leaders in Aberdeen but will also help break down barriers in the field of engineering and encourage more inclusivity in the sector.”
AFBE-UK Scotland is also working with two other Aberdeen primary schools – they visited Kaimhill Primary last month and will also visit pupils at Gilcomstoun Primary.
Dr Ollie Folayan, chair of award-winning social enterprise AFBE-UK Scotland, said: “Our aim as a group is to encourage young people to follow a career path in the engineering sector – through this link up we hope to interact with pupils in a fun and engaging way teaching them what’s great about working in our sector.”
Experts from global energy companies such as Chevron, TOTAL and Schlumberger were part of delivering the programme in schools.
ABFE UK Founder Ollie Folayan and Councillor Angela Taylor are pictured above with pupils Liam Ferguson, Elma Zvegaite and Julia Lemanczyk.
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