More than 160 young people from across the Tees Valley were given a unique opportunity to explore future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) during a careers event organised and funded by the North East STEM Foundation (NESF).

Hosted by Teesside University, the STEM Careers Day brought together students aged 13 to 15 and employers from a range of sectors, including science, chemicals, construction, engineering, infrastructure and recruitment.

Students from Outwood Academy Redcar, Ingleby Manor School, Hummersknott Academy, Darlington, Outwood Academy Bishopsgarth, Outwood Academy Riverside, Rye Hills Academy, Acklam Grange School, Freebrough Academy and Manor Community Academy attended the event.

Representatives from 3M Science, Jiahua Chemicals, MGL Group, Sir Robert McAlpine, Balfour Beatty/Technip Energies, JN Bentley/Mott MacDonald, Red Scientific, SRG Talent and Steel Benders UK volunteered their time to help young people gain a better understanding of the opportunities available within STEM industries.

The event opened with a careers marketplace, giving students the chance to speak directly with professionals about their roles, qualifications and career journeys before taking part in a series of employer-led workshops.

Designed to demonstrate how STEM skills are applied in the workplace, the sessions challenged students to solve problems, work collaboratively and think creatively through a range of practical activities. Challenges included bridge building, engineering and construction tasks, extracting DNA from strawberries, exploring critical raw materials, assessing personal protective equipment, and constructing towers using only spaghetti and marshmallows.

Michelle Henderson, NESF’s Director of Foundation Development, said: "Our aim is to help students make the connection between what they learn in the classroom and the careers they could pursue in the future. By bringing employers and young people together, we can provide valuable insight into the skills, qualifications and attributes businesses are looking for while helping students understand the breadth of opportunities available to them.

"The success of this event would not have been possible without the fantastic support of the employers involved. Their willingness to share their knowledge, experiences and enthusiasm gave students an authentic insight into the world of work and the many pathways available within STEM."

The event was delivered in partnership with Teesside University, with activities taking place in the University's Digital Life building.

Amy Newton, Student Recruitment and Outreach Manager at Teesside University, said: "Here at Teesside University, we are committed to opening doors, raising aspirations and helping young people reach their potential.

"We were delighted to work in partnership with North East STEM Foundation and welcome local schools to our discovery event. It was fantastic to see how engaged the groups were with the practical activities.

"Events like these are hugely important in encouraging interest and participation in STEM, and we hope that the students feel inspired and empowered by what they have learned."

The North East STEM Foundation works with employers, schools, colleges and universities to inspire the next generation and ensure young people are aware of the opportunities available within STEM sectors that are critical to the region's future growth and prosperity.