Deputy Minister Presents Bronze and Silver Awards
Students were recognised for their Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) skills and abilities by Wales’ Deputy Minister for Skills Technology, Ken Skates AM, during Airbus’ STEM Project Saturday Club/Summer School Industrial Cadets Certification Ceremony. The learners explained to the Deputy Minister for Skills Technology what they had learnt during the programmes and showed him their portfolios and project work.
During the event, held at Airbus’ Broughton site, students completed one of two programmes of theory, presentation and practical experience at Coleg Cambria Deeside and Airbus. These have been recognised by the Industrial Cadet scheme and sponsored by Semta and Welsh Government. Students gained an insight into Aeronautical Engineering, Airbus and the College’s engineering facilities.
The Airbus Summer School was attended by 16 to 18 year old students who were given an exciting introduction to aircraft composites and advanced technologies, as well as ‘lean’ training and practical aircraft production exercises. The programme has been endorsed by the Engineering Development Trust (EDT) allowing participants to graduate as Silver Level Industrial Cadets.
Another group of students aged between 14 and 16 attended Airbus Saturday Clubs at Coleg Cambria and Airbus, which covered engineering and the theory of flight, as well as practical aircraft assembly exercises. The programme has been endorsed by the EDT allowing participants to graduate as Bronze Level Industrial Cadets.
Over 70 students from 24 schools in the local area participated in the programmes which took place between March and July this year. They have been designed to help develop an understanding and interest in engineering, as well as to help young people make future career choices.
Mr Skates said: “I was delighted to present STEM Project learners with Airbus Industrial Cadet bronze and silver certificates. This wouldn’t be possible if there wasn’t an effective working partnership between Semta, Coleg Cambria and Airbus.
“It’s brilliant that young people, especially school leavers, can have an insight into aeronautical engineering. This valuable experience will provide them with a clear path to careers within Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) industries.
“I was especially pleased to learn that Airbus is playing a part in addressing the under-representation of women in this sector and it’s really good to know that Airbus will continue its all female Industrial Cadets this year.”
Vicky Barwis, Director of Employer Engagement said: “For Coleg Cambria, it is all about inspiring the next generation and ensuring we provide the right skills for local employers. These activities have raised awareness of the exciting career choices available locally and the apprentice opportunities available to these young people. Who knows, perhaps one of these young people will be the Head of Airbus in 2025.”
Gary Griffiths, Airbus in the UK’s Head of Early Careers said: “Airbus is delighted to be supporting this excellent initiative that will help pupils make informed decisions about the future direction they may consider for a career. The projects have provided a vehicle for them to develop the skills and knowledge they may not have had otherwise. The opportunity to work with tools and equipment used in our industry with the expertise from our staff and that of our partners Coleg Cambria is an ideal way for them to better understand the aerospace and engineering sector.”
