An event organised and hosted by Hugh Baird College recently inspired hundreds of learners from across the Liverpool City Region to follow careers in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) related fields.
The STEAM Expo 2024, which took place on Wednesday 27 March 2024, embraced the theme ‘Ignite, Innovate, Inspire’ and welcomed over 600 school pupils for a day of captivating events and activities.
Professor Coskun Kocabas from the University of Manchester delivered the keynote speech, which set the stage for a day of discovery and engagement. The speech provided insights into the future of 2D device materials and inspired the audience with groundbreaking research findings and ideas.
Attendees experienced a unique fusion of fashion and technology at the STEAM-inspired fashion show, where innovative designs created by Hugh Baird College students demonstrated the creative potential of integrating STEAM principles. The expo also featured a variety of interactive displays from employers and education providers, organised in partnership with Elevate Education Business Partnership, including Matalan, Keele University, VINCI Building, NHS, Hugh Baird University Centre, North West Genomic Laboratory Hub, Autotech, Liverpool Hope University, Svitzer and K2 Architects.
STEAMatopia 2024, part of the broader STEAM Expo, invited primary school-aged pupils to engage in activities to spark curiosity and imagination, including a giant planetarium and hands-on science workshops, making a pinhole camera and tasting real space food ice cream. Also, pupils could try on space suits, offering a tangible connection to space exploration.
Reflecting on the event, Dr Charuni Dissanayaka, STEM Technical Lead at Hugh Baird College, said:
“The STEAM Expo 2024 surpassed all expectations – we are incredibly proud to have hosted an event that has not only embodied our theme of ‘Ignite, Innovate, Inspire’ but has also brought together people of all ages to celebrate the importance of STEAM in education and our future.”
“Hugh Baird College extends its gratitude to all those who attended, participated in, and contributed to making the STEAM Expo 2024 a resounding success.”
STEAM Expo 2024 was part-funded by the Government’s Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF) through a project devised in response to the recommendations outlined in the Liverpool City Region Local Skills Improvement Plan. The plan considered the opinions of over 1,100 local employers on the skills needed to support economic growth and boost productivity in the region.
To find out more about Hugh Baird College, visit www.hughbaird.ac.uk