Erdington Academy pupils inspired by STEM fair as new employer links grow
Year 7 pupils from Erdington Academy say they feel inspired about future careers in science, technology and engineering after attending The Big Bang Fair, an event which also helped the school build important links with leading national employers.
A group of 52 Pupil Premium students travelled to Birmingham’s NEC to join thousands of young people exploring the world of STEM.
The fair brought together interactive exhibits, hands-on demonstrations and live science shows, giving pupils the chance to see how STEM subjects are applied in real-world industries. Staff say the event also plays a strategic role in connecting the academy with organisations that can help provide students with meaningful opportunities in the world of work.
One of the most significant encounters of the day came when pupils met representatives from National Highways. Students explored the breadth of careers within the organisation, including engineering, digital technology and environmental sustainability.
Careers Lead Miss Millward said: “Experiences such as The Big Bang Fair play a vital role in raising aspirations and broadening horizons, particularly for our Pupil Premium students. By connecting learning with future career opportunities, we aim to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, innovators and problem-solvers.”
She added that the event provided a valuable opportunity to begin building a relationship with National Highways, with plans to explore how the academy and the organisation can work together to create further opportunities, experiences and career insights for students.
Pupils also reconnected with Truflo Marine, a company the academy first met at last year’s Big Bang Fair. The partnership has continued to grow over the past year, and staff say it demonstrates how employer relationships can evolve into meaningful opportunities for students.
The visit also encouraged key employability skills such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving, with staff praising students for their maturity and enthusiasm.
As part of Fairfax Multi-Academy Trust, experiences like this are central to the academy’s mission to enrich lives and transform futures. The school will continue its work with Truflo Marine while developing its emerging relationship with National Highways; partnerships that staff say are essential in helping students understand the opportunities available within STEM industries and inspiring them to think ambitiously about their futures.
