- Over 4500 youngsters have now experienced a skills escalator day
130 youngsters from four Suffolk schools and one multi academy trust took part in a careers event for primary schools that was held in Eastern Education Group’s space age Extended Reality (XR) Lab.
The occasion took place at the University Professional Development Centre based on Western Way in Bury St Edmunds.
Learners aged seven to nine from Exning, Howard, St Edmundsbury, Woolpit and SENDAT (a specialist and alternative multi academy trust) took part.
They got to experience a range of activities based around information technology and computer science to help them become more informed about job opportunities in these sectors.
Victoria Fiebelkorn who organises these events that are called Skills Escalator Days said: “This event was all about giving the children an opportunity to work with technology and computing in our state-of-the-art XR lab where they got to use ‘out of this world’ equipment.
“We also had three governors who came along, university students delivered activities and IT, work placement officers, travel and tourism students gained work experience by helping support some of the sessions. So, it’s a real Eastern Education Group cross organisational day.
“The message we wanted to get across is that technology is for everyone. What we need are computer scientists of the future and that is why we are hoping to inspire these young children today.”
Alex Friend is an Eastern Education Group governor who came along to witness the work that is taking place via these Skills Escalator Days. Alex said: “I think these days are brilliant as it gives children the opportunity to see that anything is possible. The events give them confidence, opens their eyes and raises their aspirations.”
Mrs Wakeman – a teacher at Howard Primary School said: “This is the first time I’ve been to one of these events and the children have had a fabulous time and learnt lots about technology. I’d say the Skills Escalator days are inspiring.”
Joshua, 8, from Howard Primary School said: “Today was incredible.”
Ella, 7, is also from Howard Primary School. Ella said: “This was fun.”
Amir, 8, from Howard Primary School said: “It was enjoyable.”
Joseph Calver, 19 from Haverhill is on a games design degree at University Studies at West Suffolk College. Joseph said: “It’s gone really well. I’ve gained more confidence by getting involved in this.”
