Last updated 15:57, Wednesday, 21 May 2008

Students on a similar Engineering experience course that took place in Easter

THE independent educational charity, The Smallpeice Trust, has chosen Lancaster University to run one of its heavily subsidised engineering experience courses for 13- and 14-year-olds.

From August 4 to 7, students will work with young engineers, hand-picked from industry, who mentor students through every stage of product development, from concept to final testing.

Just some of the projects from a similar course last year included developing a robotic security device to protect the crown jewels and constructing a civilian bridge with intricate details and accuracy in measurement.

The Engineering Experience course costs just £95 for four days, full board, all course materials and social activities. Specialist schools and young engineers clubs will receive a discount of £15. Application forms can be accessed from the website www.smallpeicetrust.org.uk. and places are allocated on a first come, first served basis.

Founded by Dr Cosby Smallpeice in 1966, the Trust has grown tremendously over the past 40 years, helping thousands of young people find a successful career in a multitude of engineering and technical roles within industry.

Their programme is predominantly delivered through highly subsidised four-day residential training courses designed to stimulate interest in engineering, while providing work-related learning through live projects with engineers from a variety of industries. Introductory one-day in-school curriculum enrichment activities are also undertaken to suit school timetables.

This educational activity is supported by leading industry, educational and professional bodies that help promote, develop and successfully deliver the programme. The Smallpeice Trust also fosters the development of their students through social activities and learning to work as part of a team.

The Smallpeice Trust promotes engineering as a career, primarily through the provision of residential courses for young people aged 13 to 18-plus.

Dr Smallpeice was a pioneering engineer and inventor of the Smallpeice Lathe. The Trust is now governed by a board of non-executive trustees and members from a diverse range of engineering, industry, educational and professional bodies.

All courses are affiliated to the Royal Academy of Engineering Best Programme where students receive expert tuition in a variety of engineering-related and management skills, presented by consultants and industry specialists.