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Pieces of paper jumping in the air and the chance to recreate lightning are just some of the things that drew pupils to AWE’s stand at TeenTech.

TeenTech is an initiative organised by the West Berkshire Education Business Partnership to inspire and encourage GCSE students to think about possible careers in science, technology, engineering and maths.

AWE was one of a number of local companies invited to the event, and demonstrations included use of a static electricity generator, and light sensors.

John Ansell, Schools Liaison Scheme representative, helped with the hands on demonstrations and said: “We took various bits of equipment with us, including static electricity generators, light sensors, and models of a skeleton and a torso. We hosted school parties for 10-15 minute slots, discussing and demonstrating science and technology using the equipment. There was no set agenda, each demonstration was tailored to meet the interests of the school party which was assigned to us at the time.”

Ian Ridpath, a materials scientist, who also helped at the event staged at the Madejski Stadium, said: “We demonstrated how science can be used to explain naturally occurring phenomena such as lightning and also how understanding the properties of materials helps you build sensors which are used everyday. The pupils enjoyed taking part in the demonstrations and appreciated how the science they are learning in the classroom could be useful in potential careers in science and engineering.

“I enjoyed the day and was pleased by the enthusiasm of a large number of pupils, and more than a few of them had an outstanding knowledge of science for their age.”

PR08.10