The challenge to raise the appeal of the sciences, as well as the somewhat negative perception amongst young people of engineering as a profession, has been the driving factor behind Central Networks’ investment into plugin2engineering.
Central Networks delivers electricity to 4.9 million homes and businesses in central England.
plugin2engineering
plugin2engineering seeks to help key stage 3 & 4 students make the connection between science and industry. Taking on real-life roles of electrical distribution employees, students learn from a series of worksheets using a classroom kit depicting the actual infrastructure; from pylons, power stations and sub-stations to renewable energy sources such as wind turbines.
plugin2engineering goes beyond classroom learning with complementing activities including Central Networks staff volunteers for after schools clubs to work experience.
plugin2engineering is only available to specialist secondary schools within the East and West Midlands.
View comments relating to plugin2engineering
View press coverage of plugin2engineering from:
- BBC WM - Turves Green Girls School launches plugin2engineering
- Utility Week - Skills scheme may be regionally funded
Power Discovery Zone
The Power Discovery Zone supports children as they learn about electricity, providing factual information and safety advice in a fun and accessible way.
Launched in Child Safety Week 2006, The Power Discovery Zone Substation Safety Challenge aims to inform 9-11 year olds (KS2) about the hidden dangers of substations. The Challenge invites pupils to design a poster that will influence their peers to stay safe around substations. The winning entry will form the basis of Central Networks' 2007 Summer safety campaign. The activities can be delivered through PSHE in Art, English, Science and ICT.
Teachers who would like to request an information pack should visit www.powerdiscoveryzone.com
View teacher’s comments to the Substation Safety Challenge
View press coverage of the Substation Safety Challenge:
- Gloucestershire Echo - Electricity and games don't mix
- Leicester Mercury - Safety Poster Contest for Children
- Lincolnshire Echo - More power to poster campaign