School pupils get VIP treatment at Science Festival
Schools from across Essex were invited to visit Anglia Ruskin University’s campuses
Schoolchildren wearing VR headsets during the Chelmsford Science Festival
Schoolchildren from across Essex enjoyed hands-on tours of state-of-the-art facilities at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) as part of the Chelmsford Science Festival.
Around 400 pupils from schools around the county visited ARU’s Chelmsford and Writtle campuses for three schools’ events during the week-long festival.
The events gave students in Years 9, 10, 11 and 12 the opportunity to learn more about careers in science and engineering through interactive sessions and workshops, and learn about the skills and qualifications needed for different roles.
Students were able to try and ‘catch the killer’ at a forensic science workshop, experience virtual reality scenarios in the simulation suites, and see the science that goes into testing professional athletes.
The students also had a chance to join an ‘AI band’ by playing instruments and seeing how quickly AI could turn it into a song. The session, led by Select Tech, Apple’s education team, also discussed the pros and cons of this technology and its potential impact on the music industry.
An exhibit from the Royal Navy HMS Venturer also gave attendees the unique opportunity to engage with real-world STEM in a simulated naval engineering environment.
“It was a pleasure to welcome so many young people and their teachers to our campuses in Writtle and Chelmsford.
“Events like this are not only about igniting curiosity and excitement around STEM, but also about opening doors - highlighting the diverse range of educational and career pathways available and inspiring young people to feel confident and excited about what their future could hold.”
Dr Katie Groves, Head of Schools and Colleges Engagement at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)The Chelmsford Science Festival was organised by Anglia Ruskin University in partnership with Chelmsford City Council and Chelmsford 4 You, and sponsored by Teledyne e2v.