Way2Go - National 4

THE YEAR THAT WAS...

1993

WHAT WAS GOING ON IN THIS YEAR?...

SEE PAGE 21

IT’S NOT ROCKET SCIENCE... !

L SCIENCE SPECIA

ISSUE 04 DECEMBER 2009

LIVE/LEARN/ ASPIRE/ACHIEVE P26

P32 P52

IN THIS ISSUE...

ON THE RIGHT TRAX!!!!

WEIRD SCIENCE!

SCIENCE AND MATHS – SEE WHERE THEY CAN TAKE YOU!

FOR LOADS MORE GREAT CAREERS INFO VISIT: WWW.THEWAYTOGOONLINE.CO.UK

JON TICKLE - BRAINIAC

WITH THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS...

NG

TREPRENEUR?

TANFIELD LEA BUSINESS CENTRE MODERN OFFICE SPACE FOR 18-30s

WWW.THEWAYTOGOONLINE.CO.UK

D R o W E R FO

Earn while you learn!

Are you keen to gain useful, real world skills in a recognised career? If the sound of being able to earn while you learn sounds attractive, Apprenticeships could be for you!

You might think Apprenticeships only exist in traditional trades such as carpentry and plumbing, but in fact, there are programmes available in over 190 job roles, including business administration, veterinary nursing, textiles, and construction. So whether you are looking for a practical trade or an office based role, there will be something to help you enter the career you want The National Apprenticeship Service has helped hundreds of young people to start an Apprenticeship. All you need to do is register with apprenticeships.org.uk and you can search thousands of vacancies online across the country.

Some apprentices also start their programmes whilst already in a job. As we know they are highly valued because recent research showed that over 80% of employers of apprentices said that apprentices made their businesses more productive. So the training and skills gained during your Apprenticeship programme will benefit both you and your employer.

The National Apprenticeship Service runs annual awards to celebrate the achievements of both apprentices and employers. With the launch of the 2010 National Apprenticeship Awards coming soon, it’s time for current apprentices to start thinking about applications. 2009 Advanced Apprentice of the year award winner Paul Boulton said his Apprenticeship had been life changing: “Apprenticeships have given me much more than skills and work experience; they have given me self-confidence, direction, purpose and have led me to a career path that truly excites me.”

To check out Apprenticeships vacancies across the country and register as a candidate please visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk and start your future in style.

Simon Waugh Chief Executive National Apprenticeship Service

“over 80% of employers of apprentices said that apprentices made their businesses more productive”

05

INTRODUCTION

WELCOME TO ISSUE 04: Welcome to the latest issue of W2G.

PAGE 26

With the Christmas and New Year break just around the corner, everyone will be looking forward to the party season, and then thinking towards 2010 and what the challenges and expectations the new year will bring.

Here at W2G we are looking to the future, with the developments and breakthroughs in 2010 and beyond, with an in depth look at all things scientific.

With a question and answer session with Professor John Kilcoyne from Sky One’s Brainiac, W2G also continues on the science theme with an interview with Dr Sarah McClusky from Sparks Education.

ON THE RIGHT TRAX!!!!

All our regular features are inside, Playtime, This was the Year, Way2Cook and much more! We also take a look into the W2G crystal ball as we try to predict future Scientific Discoveries.

PAGE 32

As always we are pleased to hear from you, among your suggestions from the last issue, we are looking at the possibility of a W2G Facebook page, developing our website to make it more accessible and we are also hoping to bring on board a new team member, with a student diary.

Hopefully – congratulations for all you have achieved during 2009 and good luck for 2010 on whichever path you may choose, W2G will be with you for the journey!

WEIRD SCIENCE!

Enjoy the break and see in the New Year.

PAGE 52 Distinctive Publishing Ltd, 8th floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU

T: 0191 4788346 Pete Thompson

PRODUCTION MANAGER pete.thompson@distinctivepublishing.co.uk Ewan Waterhouse

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER ewan.waterhouse@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

SCIENCE AND MATHS

– SEE WHERE THEY CAN TAKE YOU!

LIVE/LEARN/ASPIRE/ACHIEVE

CONTENTS W2G MAGAZINE 04 I SPY WITH MY LITTLE EYE!!

PLAYTIME PAGE 08

8. PLAYTIME 12. AMAZING APPRENTICESHIPS - N.A.S. 14. CADET TO OFFICER - MAERSK 16. WHAT’S THE ITALIAN FOR HALLOWEEN? - R.I.L. 18. THE IMPORTANCE OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY TO ENTERPRISE 20. EXPLORE THE WORLD OF NANOMATERIALS NANOCENTRAL 21. THE YEAR THAT WAS 1993 22. AMIR KHAN Q & A - NOTGOINGTOUNI.CO.UK 23. W2G NORTH EAST 24. GOING TO SCHOOL BY BUS AND METRO - NEXUS 26. ON THE RIGHT TRAX - A4E 29. GET INVOLVED WITH CONNEXIONS...

30. APPRENTICES FROM THE SKILLS ACADEMY FOR HEALTH: STEPS 32. WEIRD SCIENCE! 34. PERIODIC TABLE OF THE ELEMENTS...

36. SCIENCE IS GOLDEN 38. NEW ENTERPRISE IN NEWCASTLE - RTC NORTH 40. REWARDING APPRENTICESHIPS - ROLLS ROYCE 42. SO, WHAT DID THE SCIENTISTS 44. TURN YOUR BUSINESS IDEA INTO REALITY - DURHAM COUNTY COUNCIL 46. FIFTEEN NORTH EAST HERITAGE - HERITAGE LOTTERY 48. APPRENTICE DELIVERS WINNING RESULTS - PD PORT 49. NOWGEN BRINGS WORLD 51. W2G NORTH WEST 52. SCIENCE AND MATHS - NWDA 56. SAFETY FIRST FOR ANGELA - CHEMICALS NW 58. AIMHIGHER LANCASHIRE SUMMER UNIVERSITIES 60. DANNY CAPRIANI Q & A - NOTGOINGTOUNI.CO.UK 61. W2G SCOTLAND 62. QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE REAL WORLD - SQA 64. MATHS - IS THE MAGIC NUMBER - OPITO 66. TIME2COOK

playtime RALF

BY THE

. . .

S E MOVI

2012

This is a disaster movie. No, wait, let me rephrase that: This movie is a disaster. At least it would be if it didn’t fall into the “so bad it’s good” category.

The plot is based on the “2012 phenomenon” beliefs, often attributed to the ancient Mayans, that predict cataclysmic events in December 2012.

Supposedly, a massive solar flare will lead to a crust displacement, which in turn will bring about global earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, typhoons and tidal waves.

To put that in Captain Planet terms, the world is on the verge of being destroyed by earth, fire, wind and water. On the bright side, our “heart” cannot be taken away.

World leaders have built vast modern-day arks to ride out the cataclysm. The arks can hold 400,000 passengers, which means one in every 17,000 people will survive. Namely, the extraordinarily rich and animals in their twos.

The rest of the world can look forward to computer-generated obliteration.

3

RATING hhhhh

IF YOU LIKED THIS I RECOMMEND YOU SEE: n Independence Day n The Day After Tomorrow n Armageddon

08

“THE REST OF THE WORLD CAN LOOK FORWARD TO COMPUTER-GENERATED OBLITERATION”

PLAYTIME

“THE NEW STAR TREK IS A WELCOME WOW THAT DAZZLES AND DELIGHTS”

DVD’S...

Star trek In an age of pointless prequels, tedious sequels and redundant raids on pop culture’s past, itís nice to be able to report that the new Star Trek is a welcome wow that dazzles and delights. Here is a film that slaps your expectations around with surprise after surprise, leaving you shaking your head in disbelief that a Star Trek film could be this good.

This is a Star Trek for an age of low aspirations and modest visions; one where Yes We Can is yesterday’s campaign slogan, not a mission statement for tomorrow. Itís a film in which finding yourself is more important than exploring the final frontier. Saving the Earth from Nero means the crew must look inward, abandoning petty jealousies and anger to forge a cohesive and capable crew. The moment of victory comes not when the planet is saved, but when Kirk gets to sit in the captainís seat.

5

RATING hhhhh

IF YOU LIKED THIS I RECOMMEND YOU SEE: n Flight of the Navigator n Battlestar Galactica n Return of the Jedi

09

PLAYTIME

. . .

C I S U m

Leona Lewis echo

Her 2007 album Spirit remains the fastest-selling debut release from a British artist. An assortment of biglunged ballads it ticked all necessary boxes and met audience expectations perfectly. It was her debut album that earned the former x-factor winner a number one both in the UK and State-side with her debut single ‘Bleeding Love’.

Echo is undeniably a bolder affair than its predecessor. Leona covers ‘Stop Crying Your Heart Out’, her short, yet sweet, take on an Oasis song already not short of that quality .

When she reaches for the highs, Leona is in the same league as Mariah Carey and Whitney.

The employment of an assortment of co-writers including Justin Timberlake and OneRepublic’s Ryan Tedder makes for a great if not easy listen!

3

RATING hhhhh

IF YOU LIKED THIS I RECOMMEND LISTEN TOO: n Mariah Carey n Whitney Houston n Aretha Franklin

10

“LEONA IS IN THE SAME LEAGUE AS MARIAH CAREY AND WHITNEY”

PLAYTIME

GAMES...

(WII) SPYBORGS (W Spyborgs looked interesting, once. Designed as a “Saturday morning cartoon-style experience”, the plan was to split the game into episodes and include advert breaks, co-op puzzles, comedy gesture-based mini-games and an eclectic array of enemies, comprised of flying crocodiles and poocovered teddy bears. Yum. Somewhere along the line, that somewhat-wacky plan got comprehensively ripped up until it was completely unrecognisable. Instead we’ve got a futuristic co-op beat’em-up, though still featuring three of the things boys love most: stompy robots, a man with a giant hand-cannon strapped to his arm, and a female ninja.

The promised humour and personality that was evident during its first reveal has drained away.

Instead, what we’ve ended up with is a thoroughly generic game with overly simplified beat-’emup mechanics, extremely repetitive gameplay, and a crushing lack of variety.

2

RATING h h h h h

IF YOU LIKED THIS I RECOMMEND YOU TRY: n Final Fight n Double Dragon n Streets of Rage

“SOMEWHERE OMEWHERE ALONG THE LINE, THAT SOMEWHAT-WACKY PLAN GOT COMPREHENSIVELY RIPPED UP”

11

Amazing Apprenticeships just a mouse click away 12

WWW.APPRENTICESHIPS.ORG UK

The National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) is helping match even more talented, enthusiastic young people with top employers through its online recruitment tool - Apprenticeship vacancies.

Launched in January 2009, the online system allows employers, training organisations and colleges to upload their vacancies enabling potential apprentices to easily search and apply for Apprenticeships.

Apprenticeship vacancies has already proven popular with over 100,000 candidates registered and thousands of positions available to apply for. It is particularly popular with 16-18 year-olds who account for over half of the registered candidates.

The website is an innovative, user friendly tool which lets you interact directly with employers to find roles which are of real interest. It allows you to search from more than 190 different Apprenticeship frameworks leading to hundreds of different job roles, ranging from accountancy to textiles, engineering to veterinary nursing, business administration to construction. Apprenticeship vacancies are available across the country.

“I really love working here. Not only am I training to become a fully qualified lab technician, I find the job extremely interesting and I’m getting paid at the same time”

Simon Waugh, Chief Executive at the National Apprenticeship Service, said: “Apprenticeship vacancies is a great way to kick start your career as an apprentice. We’ve already seen how popular it is with potential apprentices and employers, and more and more people are signing up to this fantastic service every day.”

Apprenticeship vacancies is free to use and lets you view information on the various employers and training providers advertising Apprenticeship positions. The website also includes an enhanced search function and SMS text alerts for candidates.

Guardian Marine Testing (GMT), a marine fuel testing company based in Redcar, used Apprenticeship vacancies to hire 19 year-old Ryan Berg.

Ryan has been employed on an Apprenticeship in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities. Prior to this he was training to be a bricklayer, but when he was made redundant he decided to pursue a different career and registered his details on Apprenticeship vacancies.

He said: “To help find an alternative career, I registered my details on Apprenticeship vacancies and was delighted to be called for an interview at GMT. “I really love working here. Not only am I training to become a fully qualified lab technician, I find the job extremely interesting and I’m getting paid at the same time.”

GMT Operations Manager Paul Livingston said: “Apprenticeship vacancies is a fantastic idea. As well as providing a free recruitment service for employers, it is very straightforward to use.

“It gives people the opportunity to search and apply for local, regional and national vacancies. On top of that, it gives employers a vast database of interested candidates to tap into.”

To access Apprenticeship vacancies: • Go to apprenticeships.org.uk • Click on the Apprenticeship vacancies box • Register • Create your ‘My Home’ page • Start searching for vacancies

What is an Apprenticeship?

As employees, apprentices earn a wage and work alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific skills. Off the job, usually on a day-release basis, apprentices receive training to work towards nationally recognised qualifications. Anyone living in England, over 16 and not in full time education can apply. Apprenticeships can take between one and four years to complete depending on the level of Apprenticeship and the industry sector. The minimum salary is £95 a week, however, many apprentices earn significantly more.

Key benefits: • earn a salary • get paid holidays • receive training • gain qualifications • learn job-specific skills.

To find out more about Apprenticeships, visit apprenticeships.org.uk

Apprenticeship vacancies is available at www.apprenticeships.org.uk.

WWW.APPRENTICESHIPS.ORG UK

13

R E C I F F O O T T E CAD N O I T I S N A R T E – TH

All Maersk Cadets are given the of opportunity to sail onboard a Varity d an er nk Ta , er in ta on C g, in ud cl in s vessel to ty ili ab e th em th g in iv G s. ip sh y pl Sup types experience a wide range of vessel and operational areas.

14

WWW.SEACAREERS.CO.UK

Third Engineer Stephen Carroll studied at South Tyneside College, he is now sailing onboard the Maersk Supply fleet. His vessel is currently off the coast of Brazil. Stephen share’s his first impressions as a qualified officer.

After completing my cadet ship I experienced different emotions. My first emotion was that of joy and relief that I had past my exams and gained my class 4 ticket. I’ll never forget that feeling because it made the 3 years of hard work and training worth while.

Once everything had sunk in I had a bit of time off before my first assignment which gave me time to think about the job that was in front of me and to be honest, it worried me. I kept thinking that I might not be up to standard and that I may not be able to do the job because at the end of the day, you need to know the things you learn at college but your job is on the ship and having only had 2 trips away at sea as a cadet, I was walking into a world which in all honesty I knew little about.

The reality though is completely different to what I was expecting. You realise that as soon as you walk on to the ship. The guys on board are very supportive and are well aware that the person joining is fresh out of the blocks. I realised that I worried for nothing in the end because it is not a one man show, no matter if you are deck side or engine side.

Any problems or troubles I encountered when doing my job were easily solved by simply not being afraid to ask questions. No matter how stupid you think the question is, you are always encouraged to ask.

I was also surprised at just how much I had learned as a cadet when thrown in at the deep end. It’s amazing what comes to the surface when you are put on the spot and have to do a job.

3rd officer. This gives you the chance to do a trip understudying a guy doing the job you will be doing on your next trip. It’s a good way to be introduced into what you will be doing in the coming years and makes the transition from cadet to officer nice and smooth with little to worry about.

I’ve now had the opportunity to sail on various types of container ship from old to very new and I think it’s important to see both sides of the spectrum. Sailing on older ships early on in my career has helped me immensely because you get to see how things are run without all the automation that the new ships of today have. I would recommend it to anyone who are just gaining their tickets because once you end up on the new ships and are dazzled by all the new technology, you will at least have some idea of how something works and how to fix it if it is broke. You will also get to see equipment that the newer ships may not use these days and gaining experience is what its all about because you will find yourself in a much stronger position when you go up for next ticket.

The system that is in place at the moment in which new officers are fed into the fleet is a good one in my opinion. When I qualified, I was sent out as a junior engineer but I was effectively doing the job of the 4th engineer straight away and I suppose that’s where my worries stemmed from because I had know idea if I was ready for it. The plus side of it was that I was there and I had to do the job and I learned so much in my first 2 trips as an officer. That’s when I would say I learned how to do my job, because you can implement all the things you learnt at college in your true working environment.

Now, new officers coming into the fleet get the opportunity to sail as either a junior engineer or a 4th officer along side a 4th engineer or a

INFORMATION CONCERNING THE MAERSK TRAINING SCHEME CAN BE FOUND AT WWW.SEACAREERS.CO.UK WWW.SEACAREERS.CO.UK

15

WHAT’S THE ITALIAN ,

IN SPAIN

Halloween is one of the World’s oldest holidays. The name Halloween comes from the proper name “All Hallow’s Eve” which originated in Scotland. It falls on the night before the Catholic “All Hallows” day, All Saints day or, “All Hallowed Souls” day, hence the name “All Hallow’s Eve”. Many countries celebrate festivals similar to Halloween, all in different ways and at different times in the year.

named a pastry the Bones of d like e p a Holy, sh eaten skulls, is en. we on Hallo visit s ie Famil mily fa d e deceas at members , tery the ceme il ig v g in keep ut o h g u thro The the night. pent is s next day y the famil cleaning ts. burial plo

IN AUSTRIA

it was belie ved that leaving brea d and water on a table with a lit lamp w ould help welcome de ad souls back.

16

www.routesintolanguages.ac.uk

AN FOR HALLOWEEN?

t mily .

IN ITALY

S

OUSEHOLD

GERMAN H

on all knives put away at th o s t, nigh Halloween to returning the spirits . rt u h e b not Earth will s are nd lantern Wreaths a ve family gra placed at sites.

AN,

IN JAP

placed food is f the d n a r e o wat a photo t and f o t n o r re li in f terns a ter or n a L . d dea e wa to at in th set aflo ody of water b a ad next to way of the de is e light th k to Earth. It c a ival, souls b on Fest b O e h t ays and called three d it lasts bration of the ele it is a c of the dead. y o mem r

INDIA

celebrates Mahalaya , which is a religious ri tu al in Septem ber believ ed to awaken dead spirit s.

Following Mahalaya , it is believed the souls go back to a peaceful re st for the rem ainder of the year. Whe n night fa lls, the people pray for h elp against ev il spirits.

it is custom to set the table with food and leave the house open while spending the day in church praying for the souls of the dead. They hope that the dead will return and consume the food left for them. One traditional food made is called Fave dei morti (Italian for Bones of the Dead).

IRELAND

oween rated Hall at has celeb a It is s id th . s e ri tu n e for c ing and ce of carv the practi rns ck-o’-lante ed lighting Ja m a n n ere. A ma to started th id a s ck” was to “Stingy Ja in t le an to be ot n be too me ld u o hell w d n a n e v a h he either. Wit accept him fter he died, go a nowhere to stined k” was de c a J y g n ti “S r all e earth fo to walk th rveda c a ying rr a c y it rn ete wing with a glo ip rn tu t u o . oal inside lump of c

English Pumpkin Witch Black cat Ghosts Skeleton

German Kürbis

Katze

schwarze

Skellett

Italian zocca strega

Hexe

Geister

SCOTLAND

also shares the legend of “Stingy Jack.” They hollow out turnips or potatoes and set a lit candle inside. Soul Cakes or Dirge Loaves made out of oat flour are made in hopes of keeping the souls of the dead safe.

gatto nero fantasmi scheletro

www.routesintolanguages.ac.uk

Greek Κολοκύθα Μάγισσα τα

Μαύρη γά

τα

Φαντάσμα Σκελετός

17

L A U T C E L L E T N I F O E C N A T R O P M I E H T E S I R P R E T N E O T PROPERTY Are you a budding entrepreneur?

Do you want to start your own business?

If you do then you need to know about intellectual property (IP) and the role it can play in protecting your innovations and creativity.

Intellectual property is the ingredient that turns knowledge into assets for a business.

As strange as it may seem the ultimate value of any enterprise lies mainly in what you cannot see and touch. These are the ideas and techniques, the knowledge and relationships that lie behind what a business offers to its customers.

Every product or service that we use in our daily lives is the result of a long chain of big or small innovations, such as changes in design or improvements that make a product look or function the way it does today.

Everything from a tube of toothpaste to the latest MP3 player will have intellectual property which can be protected. Inventions can be protected by patents, the shape or appearance can be protected by registered design, the brand name can be protected by trade marks and any artwork or music can be protected by copyright.

HOW DOES THIS AFFECT BUSINESS? Almost every business will own intellectual property.

Most businesses will have a trade name or one or more trade marks which could be protected. Others may have valuable confidential business information, from customer lists to sales tactics that they may wish to protect or they may have developed creative original designs, invented a new process or solved a technical problem.

HOW COULD INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY HELP? Intellectual property represents the most effective way for a business to give commercial expression to ideas and solutions by creating a basis on which they can be valued. It is the foundation on which different sorts of knowledge can be combined to build points of difference and unique capabilities.

It assists businesses in almost every aspect of their development and competitive strategy, from product development to product design, from service delivery to marketing, and may play an important factor when considering exporting or expanding abroad.

Trade marks are in many ways the face of a business; they allow customers to distinguish products and services from competitors. They are also seen as a guarantee of consistent quality, a customer who is pleased with a product or service will continue to purchase it based on the quality expectations of the known trade mark.

Effective use of innovative design adds value to a product by creating variety in a world of commodities. Aesthetically pleasing design helps build trust and lasting customer relationships which translate into higher market share, better prices and bigger profits.

18

WWW.IPO.GOV.UK

L

If a company has invested a significant amount of time and money in R & D, patent protection of the resulting inventions would help in recovering costs and obtaining higher returns on investments. A patent owner may also license their rights in exchange for royalties to generate additional income.

Most businesses, although not directly involved in the copyright area, print brochures or publish advertisements that create and/or use copyright protected materials. Even coffee shops, bars, hotels, restaurants and other retail outlets play music – protected by copyright to attract customers and increase turnover.

Thus proprietors of these businesses must understand the basics of copyright law.

It may surprise you to know that when investors are assessing the potential of a business enterprise, they firstly look at how much intellectual property is held by the business but will then ask how it is managed. If it is part of well managed portfolio of intellectual property then there is every chance that the ideas and knowledge within an enterprise can be properly exploited.

To find out more about intellectual property and how to protect it contact the Intellectual Property Office at www.ipo.gov.uk or call 08459 500 505.

The Intellectual Property Office is the official Government body responsible for granting and registering Intellectual Property (lP) rights in the United Kingdom (UK).

These Rights include: n Patents n Designs n Trade Marks n Copyright The Intellectual Property Office has developed on online educational resource aimed at raising awareness of innovation, creativity and intellectual property called “Cracking Ideas”. This resource has been developed in partnership with Aardman Animations and features the award winning characters Wallace and Gromit.

Cracking Ideas contains a wealth of information for children and teachers, including free downloadable educational packs for children aged 4 – 7, 8 – 11 and 12 – 16 containing lots of fun activities all with links to the national curriculum.

There is also a nationwide competition where children can put into practice their own enterprise and creative skills to come up with Wallace and Gromit’s next business venture. The competition is open to all children aged 4 – 16 (with 3 age categories) and there are some fantastic prizes on offer such as Wallace and Gromit goodie bags, laptops and a bespoke trophy for the overall winner created by Aardman Anmimations.

For more information on Cracking Ideas and to enter the competition go to www.crackingideas.com

WWW.CRACKINGIDEAS.COM

19

Nanotechnology

explore the world of nanomaterials...

The interest in nanomater ials and nanotechnology was started by Richard Feynman [a famous pa rticle physicist and lectur er] in 1959, who gave a talk entitled ‘plenty of room at the bottom’.

Ultimately, nanomaterial is about making mater s ials with atomic precis ion, allowing incredibl control of their propertie e s and enabling a whole range of applications.

Such atomic control can already be achieved in the scientific laboratory and control at the ten s of nanometer scale is commonly found in the electronics industry.

NanoMaterials Inspiring Commercial

Success

There are fewer and few er young people going into science, however it is as important as ev er to keep their interest in subjects that shape our lives and are essen tial in helping to combat the challenges of today and the future. To ass ist this, NanoCentral® has developed the It’s small world educational a programme for school students.

The next interactive it’s a small world event wil l be held as part of the NanoMaterials2010 co nference, at the Russell Hotel, London, 9-10 Jun 2010. Places at the ev e ent are open to schoo ls, groups, or individuals seeking to learn more about how nanomater ials is revolutionising modern materials scien ce.

For more information on nanomaterials, or for de tails of the it’s a small world programme, inc luding a teachers’ ha ndout, contact Dr Ste Devine on : ve tel: 01740 625 729 email: steve.devine@na nocentral.eu web: www.nanocentral.e u

20

WWW.NANOCENTRAL.EU

. . .

S A W T A H T R A E Y HE

T

Jan 20 Feb 24 Mar 6

Bill Clinton succeeds George H. W. Bush as the 42nd President of the United States

apr 15

The April edition of the music magazine Select is seen by many as the official start of Britpop, featuring bands like Suede, Pulp and St. Etienne

May 16

Marseille defeats AC Milan 1-0 to win the UEFA Champions league final. Marseille are later banned from defending their title the next year due to a corruption scandal

Jun

Shane Warne bowls the so-called ‘’Ball of the Century’’ to dismiss Mike Gatting in the first Ashes test at Old Trafford – Australia go on to win the series 4-0

Death of Bobby Moore, former World Cup winning England football captain An IRA bomb scare at the BBC Television Centre means the live Noel’s House Party cannot be shown. Host Noel Edmonds is forced to introduce a Tom and Jerry cartoon in its place

Jul 27

Windows NT 3.1 the first version of Microsoft’s line of Windows operating systems is released

aug 17 Sep 13

The Queen opened Buckingham Palace to the public for the first time

Oct 1 nOv 23 Dec 2

QVC UK launches in Britain, becoming the UK’s first home shopping channel

1993 T! I R

O F D

MA

Prime Minister of Israel, Yitzhak Rabin and the PLO leader Yasser Arafat sign a framework for peace at the White House 30th Anniversary of the first broadcast of Doctor Who STS-61: NASA launches the Space Shuttle Endeavour on a mission to repair an optical flaw in the Hubble Space Telescope

Top 10 games...

NO, NO...NO, NO, NO...

NO, NO, NO, NO...NO THERES NO LIMIT!!

Doom Star Fox Myst World ars & Super Mario Super Mario All St Sim City 2000 all Mutant League Footb the Ninja Master of n tur Re Shinobi III – uble Dragon Battletoads and Do Sonic Dinosaurs for Hire

Top 10 movies...

Jurassic Park The Fugitive The Firm Sleepless In Seattle Aladdin Mrs Doubtfire Indecent Proposal In The Line of Fire Cliffhanger A Few Good Men

Top 10 SongS...

2 Unlimited – No Limit Shaggy – Oh Carolina Bluebells – Young at Heart (EP) George Michael and Queen – Five Live ts Wan She That Ace of Base – All You UB40 (I Can’t Help) Falling in Love with Gabrielle – Dreams Take That – Pray Culture Beat – Mr Vain Room The Fresh Prince – Boom! Shake The

21

In 2004 Amir Khan hit the headlines for winning Silver medal for Great Britain at the Athens Olympics for Boxing…all at the tender age of 17. Now a professional boxer and avid Bolton fan, Amir takes time out of his very busy training schedule I thatchose to talk to us about his experiences as not to go to uni. gladhe extremely hip I am ntices on an appre decided up ing to university an go ands YOU HAVE A ROLE MODEL? WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST rather th me a more “hDID e ff o rs it s a g in ACHIEVEMENT AND WHAT MADE IT SO SPECIAL? WAS IT? AND WHY? ch to learn WHO le” on” approa only abMy s u “ re o Winning the silver medal at the 2004 Olympics, and I ewas 17 role Model is Muhammad Ali as he was the best ever boxer out m giv s me anind boxing. years old and the only one to represent England there I wanted to be just like him, whatever career you are in, you . ons qualificati want to be the best and try your hardest.

WHAT ELSE WOULD YOU LIKE TO ACHIEVE? Becoming a world champion.

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE A CHILD? I’ve always wanted to be a boxer.

HOW DID YOU FIND SCHOOL? I enjoyed school, it was fun and I made a lot of good friends as well as learning a lot.

WHAT PUT YOU ON YOUR CURRENT PATH? Dedication and commitment, my father took me to the boxing gym at the age of 8 it felt like home, ever since then I loved boxing and decided to take it on as a career.

HOW HAS YOUR BTEC QUALIFICATION HELPED YOU GET WHERE YOU ARE TODAY? It kept me active and occupied, as well as a good insight into other sports and sports science, you learn a lot more than you think you already knew.

DID LEARNING BOTH PRACTICALLY AND AT COLLEGE MAKE A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE? Of course I’ve always said hands on experience is the best way to learn along with the paper work to help you understand better.

WOULD YOU RECOMMEND VOCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS? Depends what career you want to get into.

DID YOUR COURSE PROVIDE YOU WITH THE SKILLS NECESSARY TO GET ON IN YOUR CHOSEN CAREER? Yes fitness wise it did, it helped me understand how my body works etc.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SCHOOL AND COLLEGE LEAVERS? Stick to studying unless you have a natural talent and as soon as you get an opportunity go for it don’t let it go.

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WWW.NOTGOINGTOUNI.CO.UK

NORTHEAST

L O O H C S O GOING T O R T E M D N

BY BUS A ou walk? y o D l? o o h c s o t t e g u o y How do r u o y m o r f t f li a t e g u Cycle? Perhaps yo c li b u p e s u y d a e lr a u o parents? Or maybe y a it g in iv g t u o b a g in transport – or are think r! e ld o c g in t t e g ’s it w o n try, especially

WHY USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT?

By making your own way to school, you’ll be gaining independence. You’re learning to travel in a sustainable way which will help protect the planet for your future, as well as helping cut congestion. Plus, more than 80% of parents admit they find making the ‘school run’ by car an added cause of stress.

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WWW.NEXUS.ORG.UK

If you’re going to travel by public transport to get to school, here are a few things we do to help you: THE RIGHT TICKET If you’re in year 11 or below - get a CAT! You can travel all day on all public transport in Tyne and Wear for just £1 if you have a Child All-day Ticket (CAT). The single child fare is 50p, so use the CAT as a return ticket – or make several journeys with it and save loads of money! This ‘concessionary’ fare is cheaper than the commercial child fare bus companies and Metro charge.

You’ll need to show your Under 16 Card to be able to buy the single fare or CAT, so if you haven’t got one, get an application form from any Nexus TravelShop or at nexus.org.uk/ct.

We also sell season tickets for travel to school - School Passes. Further details of all tickets available to children and young people going to school are shown on nexus.org.uk/ct.

FINDING OUT ABOUT TRAVEL To find out what public transport connects your home to school call Traveline on 0871 200 22 33, go to the Journey Planning or Schools and Colleges sections on nexus.org.uk.

SCHOOL BUSES If your school isn’t close to convenient public transport Nexus provides dedicated ‘scholars’ buses. There are more than 300 different bus services to more than 80 schools every day arriving and leaving within 15 minutes of the start and end of classes.

You can find details of bus services to your school from the school itself or by going to the Scholars Services section of nexus.org.uk Did you know that buses marked as ‘Scholars’ services’ can be used by everyone – including parents who may want to use them to take younger children to school?

SECURITY AND SAFETY ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT It matters to us that your journey is safe, as well as being convenient and good value. Working with schools we make sure buses call at safe locations close to or within the school gates, and that boarding is monitored by staff to ensure good behaviour. Schools and Nexus sign up to the ‘Safemark’ scheme to ensure high standards of behaviour throughout the journey. Metro staff are also on-hand at stations close to large schools in the morning and afternoon to help all passengers at busy times.

THERE’S MORE TO LIFE THAN SCHOOL…..

And of course public transport, isn’t just for getting to school.

Your £1 CAT will be even better value for money if you use it to get to your part-time job, go to the shops, meet up with your mates, go to the cinema……..

Finding out about travel To find out what public transport connects your home to school call Traveline on 0871 200 22 33, go to the Journey Planning or Schools and Colleges sections on nexus.org.uk.

WWW.NEXUS.ORG.UK

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ON THE RIGHT T Extended Work Experience is a fantastic programme centrally co-ordinated by the Tees Valley Education Business Partnership, working in affiliation with the Local Authority. This programme allows students regular work experience over a specified period of time, this could vary from a few weeks to two years.

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WWW.A4E.CO.UK

T TRAX!!!!

“Lee is now taking ownership o f his job role, comple ting tasks without bein g asked.

We have rec eived very good feedba ck from customers/ clients explaining t hat Lee is a good m ember of Righttrax te am”

enjoying y ll a e r m a I “ like the work. I groups leading the hem do t g in lp e h d an I have a . s ic n a h c e m nfidence lot more co now”

ER

LEE OLIV

“I am ver y pleased with the feedback from Rig htt seems th rax. It is work experienc ei for Lee a s good nd he can show his skills to his best advantag e” JAC

K

TEACHINGIE ASSISTAN T

CHRISTINE ELLISTON

RIGHT TRAX

This kind of placement gives the student direct experience of the world of work, and maximises their opportunities to gain skills which will be invaluable to employers once they enter into industry. Agreed targets for achievement are set and feedback and monitoring by both the School and Employer is ongoing throughout their placement.

Lee Oliver is a shining example of the effectiveness of the Extended Work Experience programme. Lee is a student from Ashdales School in Middlesbrough and has proved that this programme is effective and can make a positive contribution to a student’s development. Lee started his extended work experience placement at the start of this year at Righttrax – an adventure training company. He attends the organisation twice a week and has completed his Wider Key Skills Level 2, proving to both his teachers and the employer that he is driven to succeed and has a focus and ambition to realise his goals.

The employer has been so impressed with his work and determination that they feel he would make a valued member of staff within the company and have assured Lee that he will be in employment by the end of programme.

We have numerous success stories of students such as Lee who have benefited immensely from an extended work placement. This is mainly due to the fact that it has allowed Lee to be flexible and demonstrate his skills and qualities whilst developing his ability to recognise them.

Prior to work experience Lee did not fulfil his true potential.

Through this programme large numbers of young people have achieved accredited qualifications, secured apprenticeships and received job offers – a true testament to the benefits of the programme.

If you would like any further information about Extended Work Experience placements please contact Nichola McFarlane on 01642 754781 or Claire Hancock on 01642 754757.

WWW.A4E.CO.UK

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GET INVOLVED WITH CONNEXIONS…

Connexions County Durham launched their new website on October 5th 2009.

The website, which had been developed with consultation and feedback from young people has new ‘bloggier’ look and enhanced features such as www.help4teens.co.uk interactive graphics and video. Check it out at www.help4teens Following the live website launch we invited a group of 18 young people who were diverse in age, background and ability from across the county to come with their Personal Advisers to a demonstration of the new site.

They then spent some time looking at the new styling and testing the ease of use, the information available and the presentation of content, before providing some really detailed and valuable feedback.

YOUNG pEOpLE SHApING THE FUTURE OF THE HELp4TEENS WEbSITE Since the launch of Connexions County Durham in 2002 we have had the involvement of young people at the core of our developments. Young people were as integral to the design of the original Help4teens website back in 2005, as they have been to this updated version. In Durham this involvement included having young people represented on the Connexions Board, on interview panels and having youth forums where we could gather views at a local level.

We really want your involvement to help us develop the service in the way that makes a difference for you! We have created a new e-mail link so you can tell us what you want from Connexions County Durham and give us feedback on your experiences…………..so tell us!!!!!

www.help4teens.co.uk

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TOUR OF HOSPITAL KICKS OFF YOUNG APPRENTICES PROGRAMME Eight talented Young Apprentices from the Skills Academy for Health: STEPS and Gateshead schools have taken a tour of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Gateshead as part of a new Young Apprentices programme.

Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust recently decided to take on young apprentices for a half day each week, to teach the basics to those interested in a health profession.

The all-female group, aged between 14 and 16, are all completing a Heath and Social Care qualification or the Society, Health and development Diploma and are the first learners aged under 16 years to take part in a placement at the hospital. These placements began in October 2009.

Pathology was the final stop, where Phil Johnson gave a full tour of the different areas within the department, showing everyone the journey of blood samples for testing and where it is stored for transfusion, and how tissue is dissected and examined.

Young Apprentice Kathryn Guthrie, 15 from St Thomas More School in Blaydon said: “The information we were given on the welcome day was very useful and the tour was great. I particularly enjoyed seeing what happens behind the scenes in pathology and I can’t wait to get started with my placement.”

The Trust’s work placement coordinator, Rachel Horn, said: “It is vital for young people to be fully equipped with all of the tools they need to make a career decision and the earlier this can begin the better, so we are delighted to have the Young Apprentices on board.

A ‘welcome morning’ for the youngsters began with staff presentations from the membership team, infection prevention and control and physiotherapy, who all provided general information about the Trust as well as specific information on their areas and roles.

“Healthcare is one of the professions where hands-on experience prior to choosing qualifications is not always possible, so this programme will offer a unique opportunity for young people to see what really goes on in a hospital based role and be further prepared for the path they may take in the future.”

The Young Apprentices were then taken to the radiology department, where senior radiographers Dave Winthrop and Kelly Winterburn introduced them to three-dimensional imaging, gave them lead vests to try on and took them on the huge CT scanner.

Ian Renwick, Chief Executive of the Trust, said: “We are delighted to welcome these young people to the Trust and I hope they will gain valuable experience of what it is like to work in a hospital environment and possibly decide to further their career in this direction.”

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www.skillsacademyforhealth.org.uk

DIPLOMA STUDENTS TAKE ON NEWCASTLE JUSTICE Eight very fortunate Young Apprentices from the Skills Academy for Health: STEPS have been given to opportunity to experience working life at the Crown Prosecution Service in Newcastle upon Tyne.

This programme is the first of its kind in the area and has given the Young Apprentices the opportunity to work alongside many different professions within the Crown Prosecution Service including working with the witness care team. The students have also spent some time at the magistrates’ and crown courts.

The students from St Thomas More school study the Society, Health and Development Diploma in the region and the community justice placements give the Young Apprentices an insight into the inner workings and various careers that are available within the Crown Prosecution Service. The students also complete a workbook throughout their time on placement learning about the various laws and codes that must be upheld within the courts, which will help them to complete their diploma course work.

Charlotte Chirwa from the Crown Prosecution Service said: “We were extremely pleased to welcome the students into our offices so they could experience for themselves the work that the CPS does. Our role is to champion justice, prosecuting those who break to the law, while protecting the rights of the public who deserve to feel safe in the communities they live in. The students were able to see the wide range of job roles that the CPS employs, from the lawyers presenting cases in the magistrates’ and crown courts, to the witness care officers ensuring that victims and witnesses are always listened to.”

www.skillsacademyforhealth.org.uk

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Way 2 Go Q and A

!

E C N E I C S D R I WE

By John Dean & Frances Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

...WITH BRAINIAC’S VERY OWN Professor John Kilcoyne

Professor John Kilcoyne went to school in Bradford and from there to the University of Sheffield where he did a degree in Chemistry, graduating in 1966. He stayed on for another three years and did a PhD in physical chemistry, followed by a two year postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Nottingham sponsored by the Rocket Propulsion Establishment at Wescott. He joined what was then Sunderland Polytechnic in 1971 as Lecturer Grade II, retiring in as an associate dean in 2006 but still working doing science recruitment work in schools and colleges. He is well known to a generation of young people as part of the team behind the Sky television science programme Braniac.

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WWW.THEWAYTOGOONLINE.CO.UK

WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN SCIENCE?

When I was 11, someone bought me a chemistry set for Christmas, together with a book “The Young Chemist” by Frank Sherwood Taylor.

That got my interest and so at school I was motivated to pursue the sciences which I found fascinating.

HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN SCIENCE EDUCATION?

It seemed a natural progression after my post doc. I found research interesting but a bit too narrow for me so I sought a job with both a research and teaching aspect.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO BRANIAC AND SIMILAR WORK?

The producer of Brainiac was a graduate of Sunderland and had heard I gave presentations so contacted the press office to see if I was interested - and I was!

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO MAKE SCIENCE FUN FOR YOUNG PEOPLE?

Hugely. But it is important to stress the different levels at which fun or pleasure can be derived. There is not only the superficial level of the bangs and flashes - though that is what engages most people initially (and much of which has been stifled in schools by H & S overkill). There is also the pleasure to be gained by understanding something you have found difficult and had to work at and I guess the ultimate pleasure of being the first to discover something no one else knew before.

WHAT ARE THE KEYS TO ENGAGING THEIR INTEREST?

Making it fun and making it exciting to learn the difficult concepts involved. In short, first-rate teaching. That is why teachers and science teachers in particular are vital in any society.

DO YOU FIND YOUNG PEOPLE RECEPTIVE TO SCIENCE?

I think they would be, if they were given a fair wind. There are factors which mitigate against it. For example, I have heard it rumoured that schools encourage children to take subjects which are “softer options” because they will get better results and the school’s league table place will be improved.

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS THE BIGGEST SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGH THAT HAS HAPPENED DURING YOUR LIFE TO DATE?

Must be the discovery of the structure of DNA by Crick and Watson et al in the early 1950s. Look at what has stemmed from that!

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE FACING SCIENTISTS IN THE DECADES TO COME? Gravity and the reconciliation of General Relativity and Quantum Mechanics to explain the Universe, Life and all that and show the answer is not 42 (Hitchhiker’s Guide)!

WWW.sky1.sky.com/shoW/brainiac

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PERIODIC TABLE

ABLE OF THE ELEMENTS...

N E D L O G S I E C N E SCI Dr Sarah McLusky, of Sparks Education, believes that the key to teaching science to young people is making i t fun.

For the past two years, her business has helped hundreds of pupils do experiments which make them love all the sciences. Her work includes workshops where students make and launch a fireworkfuelled rocket which lands with a parachute.

Her career history started in a traditional lab with a Biology degree from Edinburgh University and a PhD from Imperial College at Wye. After graduating, she began work at the Edinburgh Science Festival then moved to Newcastle to become an Education Officer at the Centre for Life, and then on to SETPOINT North East where, during five years as Education Operations Manager, she helped more than 200,000 children enjoy science.

What are the keys to engaging their interest?

A very wise teacher once told me to start everything with a question.

Science is not a collection of facts, it is an investigative process that asks and tries to answer questions about how things work. What happens if we do this? Why does it happen? Asking questions turns science into a puzzle, and then, when learners solve the puzzle, it gives an enormous sense of satisfaction.

What kind of topics particularly interest them?

She set up her North-East-based business in 2006.

Mainly things which are really big, really fast, really weird, really gross or really messy!

What sparked your interest in science?

Do you stress the possibilities of pursuing science as a career?

Both my parents are science graduates so it has always been part of my life. When I was a child, I loved going to visit my dad’s research labs (he’s a marine biologist) to see all the animals. I also vividly remember visiting the Science Museum in London aged about 10. I was amazed that science was considered so important and exciting that they had dedicated a whole museum to it!

How did you become involved in science education?

When I finished my PhD, I needed a job! I wasn’t having much luck with ‘proper’ jobs so I applied for and got a temporary job delivering workshops for the Edinburgh Science Festival. After spending three months making rockets, slime and fake wounds, I was hooked.

I spent a year doing quite lowly and voluntary work in science education to get the experience I needed to get a proper full-time science education job.

How important is science education for young people?

Science education has two important tasks to do. First, we need to develop scientific literacy so that everyone is able to make decisions about the science in their day-to-day lives, e.g. the importance of a healthy diet, the dangers of smoking, the pros and cons of immunisation, the impact of climate change. Second, we need to prepare the next generation of scientists for their careers and ensure that young people with potential know about the opportunities and rewards a career in science can offer them. Ultimately, our economic success and the welfare of our population depends on it!

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I tend to work mainly with primary and early secondary school pupils so stressing career opportunities at that age is not really appropriate.

My main focus is on providing strong, positive role models and ensuring that young people stay excited about science.

What do you think is the biggest scientific breakthrough that has happened during your life to date?

The eradication of smallpox through mass vaccination in the late 1970s showed what is possible if scientists, politicians and individuals work together. Millions of people were saved from death or disability.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing scientists in the decades to come?

Climate change. Like smallpox tackling this needs scientists, politicians, companies and individuals to work together. We know what the problem is, we have the technology, we now need governments to pass tough legislation to compel companies and individuals to make the necessary changes.

www.sparkseducation.co.uk

N

“Science is not a collection of facts, it is an investigative process that asks and tries to answer questions about how things work�

www.sparkseducation.co.uk

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NEW ENTERPRISE Thanks to the European Commission and Newcastle City Council over a thousand young people across the city of Newcastle will benefit from enterprise focused investment in their future.

As part of the new £3.5 million Newcastle Enterprise Package over 1,000 young people from schools and youth groups across the city will access FREE programmes aimed at increasing their business skills and knowledge of enterprise. Helping young people to move into a position where they would seriously consider self employment the programmes delivered by RTC North will offer a wide Pick and Mix range of enterprise activity.

Delivered in schools or working with youth groups, sessions will be offered as interactive lessons, half day workshops or full day activity programmes. Available sessions include:

n n n n n n n n n n

Creative thinking and problem solving Idea generation Introduction to business/social enterprise Decision making Entrepreneur case studies and mentoring support Business planning Financial awareness Marketing awareness VVirtual business simulation experience Signposting to regional support and other providers of enterprise education

Working closely with RTC North as part of the Enterprise Package programme Walker Technology College will kick off a series of enterprise activities for young people and CPD opportunities for staff from November 09. With Year 10 students currently working on an enterprise project culminating in Enterprise Week Joanne Lulham from Walker college said:

“AT WALKER TECHNOLOGY COLLEGE, WE GREATLY APPRECIATE THE SUPPORT PROVIDED BY RTC, THE STAFF HAVE BEEN FANTASTIC. RTC HAVE CREATED RESOURCES WHICH ARE RELEVANT AND APPROPRIATE TO THE STUDENTS NEEDS. RTC’S INVOLVEMENT WILL GREATLY ENHANCE THE DELIVERY OF THE CURRICULUM AND THUS FURTHER THE STUDENTS LEVEL OF UNDERSTANDING.” *FREE depending on eligible post code

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WWW.RTCNORTH-EDUCATION.ORG.UK

SE IN NEWCASTLE !

To compliment the enterprise activities delivered to young people in Newcastle, FREE CPD training for staff is also available. Targeting key influencers of enterprise across the city, idea generation and business simulation sessions will be offered to youth workers, teachers, volunteers and advisers working with young people. With training already delivered to Connexions advisers and KeyFund facilitators across Newcastle Janine Marshall from RTC North commented:

“WE ARE CURRENTLY ENTERING A REALLY EXCITING PERIOD OF ENTERPRISE LEARNING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN OUR REGION. BY WORKING WITH KEY INFLUENCERS AND ADVISERS OF THESE GROUPS WE WILL ENSURE THAT ENTERPRISE LEARNING WILL BECOME EMBEDDED AND SUSTAINABLE. WE ARE PLANNING TO REACH OVER ONE THOUSAND YOUNG PEOPLE ACROSS NEWCASTLE AND RECOGNISE THE “TRAIN THE TRAINERS” WORKSHOPS ARE CRUCIAL TO THE SUCCESS OF THIS INITIATIVE.” The two part training programme for staff aims to increase knowledge of entrepreneurship by offering a one day business simulation workshop complemented by a suite of three half day thematic workshops. The Business simulation process is a valuable element of the support package offering participants the opportunity to run their own virtual business. Supported by business planning, sourcing finance and marketing sessions Influencers will be better placed to help young people develop their skills for running a venture.

CONTACT US NOW FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

T: 0191 5164400 E: enquiries@rtcnorth.co.uk W: www.rtcnorth-education.org.uk RTC North is a trusted delivery partner of business support, innovation and enterprise programmes on behalf of regional development agencies, the European Commission, local authorities and central government.

WWW.RTCNORTH-EDUCATION.ORG.UK

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S P I H S E C I T N E R REWARDING APP T S A E H T R O N E H T IN SAM FORESTER

CUNDALL JOHNSTON & PARTNERS

When I finished my GSCEs I stayed on for sixth form.

However, after the first year I decided that it was not for me and it was time for a change.

I had been studying engineering at “A” level and knew that this was the sector that I wished to move into. I went for an interview at Newcastle College to enquire about their engineering courses, they told me that they could provide a suitable course and that there may be the possibility of getting into an apprenticeship scheme with Rolls-Royce. This sounded like an interesting opportunity and a more “hands on” approach to learning.

After receiving their contact details, from the college, I got in touch with Rolls-Royce NETC and after a short conversation, they invited me to come in for an aptitude test and interview. The interview was an informal discussion about what I had done in the past and my aspirations for the future. As soon as the interview finished I was offered a position at the training centre and told I would start in September 2007.

When September came around I was ready to start my new challenge at Rolls-Royce. Over the first few days I found the atmosphere to be friendly and got to know a lot of my peers.

Getting to the Centre for 7:30am every day was difficult at first but I quickly got used to it.

Alternating between a month at college and a month at the training centre allowed

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“I used the knowledge that I had gained over the previous months, whilst at Rolls-Royce NETC, for my job application and interview. This helped me perform more competently during the interview and I was offered a position at the company as a Mechanical Engineer.” me to cover a wide range of practical and theoretical skills varying from Computer Aided Design to Turning, Milling and Welding. The advantage of covering different areas was that it allowed me to understand different sectors of engineering and to decide which sector I wanted to move into for my future.

After only a few months of intense but enjoyable training had passed, opportunities of potential future employment became available. One of which was Cundall Johnston and Partners in Gosforth, Newcastle. I used the knowledge that I had gained over the previous months, whilst at Rolls-Royce NETC, for my job application and interview. This helped me perform more competently during the interview and I was offered a position at the company as a Mechanical Engineer.

I have now found myself in a very good career with a worldwide company that will support my ambition to progress to a degree in Mechanical Engineering. I have excellent opportunities to work all over the world and am fortunate that I thoroughly enjoy my job.

During my 7 months at Rolls-Royce NETC I made a lot of good friends but most importantly learnt some extremely valuable skills that have enabled me to reach the position I am in today. I can say to anyone now that if you are interested in embarking on an exciting career in engineering, gaining worthwhile qualifications and valuable hands on skills while earning a wage, I would highly recommend this apprenticeship.

WWW.RRNETC.CO.UK

Engineering Apprenticeships with FORD AEROSPACE LIMITED

Upon leaving school with a number of GCSEs, I enrolled at South Tyneside College to study for “A” levels in law, accounts, and media studies. After only six months on this course I realised it was not for me.

My new ambitions were to seek a technical career in engineering. After contacting Connexions employment agency I was advised to contact Rolls- Royce NETC. I had obviously heard of Rolls- Royce before but was unaware that they provided engineering apprenticeships for young people like me.

The Rolls-Royce website provided me with an application form, which I completed and sent off immediately. From there I was invited to attend aptitude tests and then an interview.

I was fairly confident after the interview that I had fared well, and shortly after, I was accepted with a start date for September 07.

I was very pleased to have been given this opportunity.

Upon starting at the training centre, I found it very hard getting into the routine of a prompt start for 7:30am every day. But I sharp got used to it and began to realise it was all part of introducing me to a working environment.

Whilst training at Rolls-Royce, I studied for PEOs towards an NVQ level 2. RollsRoyce also sent me to Newcastle College

JAKE LINCOLN

FORD AEROSPACE LIMITED

to obtain a technical certificate towards my apprenticeship. I enjoyed all aspects of the apprenticeship including both the technical side at college and the practical training at Rolls-Royce NETC. Whilst at the training centre I covered many areas of engineering, including computer aided design, fabrication & welding and conventional machining (turning and milling).

It was at this point that Ford Aerospace required a machining apprentice. My name was put forward for an interview, and I was offered the job the same day.

I was delighted to be given the opportunity to work with Ford Aerospace and was excited to embark on a career in engineering. Ford are a well established Company at the cutting edge of technology, manufacturing precision components for the aerospace industry. I felt that they could provide the technical apprenticeship that I was seeking.

It is currently the third year of my apprenticeship and I am really enjoying it.

WWW.RRNETC.CO.UK

I have now completed two years at Newcastle College for my BTEC National Certificate.

For my third year Ford thought it would be beneficial for me to progress to higher education on a HNC in manufacturing. They have offered full financial support for this course and allowed me day release to attend college.

Looking back on my early endeavours at South Tyneside studying “A” levels I’m very sure that I made the correct decision approaching Rolls-Royce to pursue an apprenticeship in engineering. I urge anyone with an aspiration to become an engineer to approach RollsRoyce NETC.

JAKE LINCOLN FORD AEROSPACE For further information on Rolls-Royce Apprenticeships visit our website at www.rrnetc.co.uk

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So, what did the scienti For many people, young and old, science is an abstract subject, something taught at schools but which seems to have little relevance to the real world.

Yes, Bunsen Burners and hissing dishes of acids make for a diverting classroom experience but what does it all really mean?

What do the men and women in the white coats actually do?

cure for cancer. Will it happen? We reckon that it is very likely that, one day, cancer will be something that is not feared at all, that is either preventable or easily treated if it does occur.

Well, scientists and their experiments hold the key to unlocking some of the planet’s greatest secrets. And as Way2Go celebrates science, we dust off our crystal ball and try to predict some of the breakthroughs which will be made in the years to come.

But be warned: another nasty is bound to come along to take its place: it’s part and parcel of the human condition.

Winning the battle against cancer

One of the areas in which science is playing a spectacular part is in the treatment of illnesses which had previously virtually guaranteed death.

First, a brief history lesson celebrating some of the stars of medical science, for instance Anton von Leeuwenhoek, who established the existence of micro-organisms in the 1670s, Louis Pasteur who furthered understanding of germs in the 19th Century and Alexander Fleming, the 20th Century scientist who is credited with discovering penicillin.

Among the ‘stars’ of the new scientific age are those working in the field of genetics, conducting pioneering research which promises to bring about massive breakthroughs in the treatment of many conditions, including cancer.

There have already been some recent major breakthroughs, including the mapping of the human genome and the identification of genes that cause cancers, thereby allowing doctors to predict and prevent the onset of the illness.

The results are there to see: many cancers have already seen survival rates rise increasing dramatically.

Our prediction: Scientists, including many in the UK, believe they may be closing on the Holy Grail of medical science, the legendary

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Power to the people

The discovery of electricity was one of the major developments of the modern age but, ironically, for all it took Man’s development onto the next level it also threatened the very future of the Planet on which he lives.

Causing the problem has been the use of fossil fuels to generate electricity, which also produce greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, heating up the Earth’s temperature.

That has caused much more volatile weather and dire warnings about rising sea levels and floods.

Although there remain fierce debates about the extent and causes of climate change, one thing is agreed: that reducing the impact of fossil fuels has got to be a good thing.

Although one big area of scientific research is the generation of power by continuing to use coal and storing the resultant gas, for many scientists, future solutions lie elsewhere.

Our prediction: Wind turbines are already dotting our landscape but our prediction is that within 30 years, the likes of tidal power and hydrogen will be much more prevalent.

Both generate massive natural power without producing those nasty greenhouse gases.

They, along with the likes of solar power, remain in their early stages of development but we reckon that they hold the key to the future.

Travel

Ever since the great railway, aircraft and automotive pioneers first started work, Man

has been seeking ways of going further and faster.

It was the dream that drove men like the great North-East England railway pioneers George Stephenson and Timothy Hackworth, the American automotive inventor Henry Ford and aircraft creators The Wright Brothers., Their vision revolutionised the world.

These days, however, the focus is as much on travelling greener and safer. Scientists have already developed cars that run on electricity, hydrogen and even water, not dirty old petrol, and have on-board computers which pilot the vehicles themselves to eradicate dangerous driving.

And in the air, developments in flight will produce planes which can make crossing the planet dramatically less time-consuming, aircraft which will take a 24-hour journey to Australia and make it possible in just a few hours. Such craft are already being developed.

Our prediction: We ask ‘does the future hold trains, planes and automobiles anyway?’

There may be a much bigger development to come.

American sci-fi television show Star Trek pioneered the idea of the transporter which was able to move people vast distances at the push of a button by unscrambling a person’s molecules then reassembling them somewhere else.

But is it all just science fiction? Well, there is a story that in the early days of the television series, the Star Trek team received a visit from NASA asking who was leaking the agency’s secrets, so the idea of a transporter may not be all that fanciful, after all.

Experiments are already reported to have made very modest breakthroughs in transporting matter very short distances: we believe that it not impossible that such technology will develop further and that eventually Man will be transported from place to place just like they did on the Enterprise.

WWW.THEWAYTOGOONLINE.CO.UK

entists ever do for us?

Computing the future

He may not be a household name to most people but Indian mathematician Pingala was the man who first discovered the significance of the ones and zeroes which make up the binary numeral system.

It may sound dry academic stuff but it actually allowed those who followed, such as Gottfried Leibniz who developed a binary logic in 1703, to lay the foundations for the computer.

By the mid-20th Century, the modern computer itself had been born, arising from the work of Alan Turing, who spent World War II cracking Nazi codes at the Bletchley Park centre and whose techniques gave scientists the understanding to develop our PCs and laptops.

Today, computers can do everything from predict the onset of illness to fly aeroplanes but how far can the technology go?

Our prediction: Our best guess is that there are many great discoveries to come but it’s more actually a case of predicting Man’s response rather than the advances in technology.

We reckon that, as it always does with history, the pendulum will swing and people will take back more and more tasks themselves, resisting the idea of computer-powered robots doing all the housework and driving our cars for us.

When small is beautiful

Picture the scene: the motorist has been driving for several hours without a break and is beginning to feel weary. Without realising it, the driver’s reactions slow and it becomes more difficult to make the right decisions.

Which is when the car itself raises the alarm, using tiny sensors in its frame to alert the driver that it is time for a rest. An alarm may go off or the colour of the dashboard may suddenly change colour. It’s another life saved.

Fanciful? Futuristic? Not according to those pioneering the world of nanotechnology, already a billion pound global industry. They say that the only restriction for those involved is the human imagination.

At its most basic, nanotechnology is the science of the small, be it medical sensors

that can detect tiny changes in a person’s health, electronic communicators so small they can be sown into the lining of a jacket or almost invisible devices that can spy on enemy troops.

Our prediction: nanotechnology is the future and we can see a time when your suit tells you that you have a cold is coming because your vital signs have changed without you even realising you are unwell. Oh, and by the time you do realise you are unwell, your trousers will already have ordered the Beechams for you!

To boldly go….

Now this really is Star Trek stuff because Space travel is one of the most rapidly advancing sciences - and one of the most exciting.

Again, a quick history lessons is needed to pay tribute to some of the stars - as it were of the space exploration world.

Actually, it all goes back, as so many great inventions do, to the Chinese. It was the discovery of gunpowder by Chinese alchemists in the 9th Century that made scientists realise the powers of propulsion.

The 20th Century saw life imitating art because, inspired by works including HG Wells’ science fiction, Wernher von Braun developed ballistic missiles for the German army after his education in aeronautical engineering. In 1941, his team designed what became the V-2 rocket, the first man-made object to achieve sub-orbital spaceflight.

The rest, as they say is history, with the first space flight, Moon landings - ‘one giant leap and all that’ and whole communities living in orbit. But where does space travel go now?

Our prediction: We reckon that Man will eventually land on other planets, that scientists will discover ways of overcoming the problems caused by volatile weather conditions and vast distances. Mars? Maybe.

Planets further afield? Definitely.

And what will we find? Well, it seems unlikely that we are only such beings in the Cosmos so who knows what we will find?

After all, the Milky Way alone contains a staggering 100 billion stars - who knows what secrets are out there?

A dark tale

This relates to probably the most amazing discovery yet to be made - if anyone can work out where to look.

Scientists know from their calculations that there is five times more material in clusters of galaxies than they would expect to find.

That led them to conclude that most of the matter in the entire Universe is invisible.

This is what they call dark matter.

There is plenty of research being conducted by scientists trying to find out exactly what it is, how much exists and what effect it has on the future of the Universe.

Our prediction: This is a really difficult one but if scientists can answer these questions, it could lead to a radically different understanding of the world in which we live. And who knows, it might lead to the discovery of other worlds that exist between the cracks, parallel universes, different dimensions, time travel… hang on, we are getting carried away now. Such things are fanciful - but that is what they said about the idea of fire until someone invented it. There are truly exciting times ahead.

“nanotechnology is the future and we can see a time when your suit tells you that you have a cold is coming because your vital signs have changed without you even realising you are unwell”

WWW.THEWAYTOGOONLINE.CO.UK

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YOUNG AD 275H X 216.indd 1

11/8/09 13:34:38

FIFTEEN E G A T I R E H T S A E H T NOR lmmakers from Aspiring young fi the North East show what their heritage means to them This year marks the 15th Anniversary of the National Lottery. As part of this landmark event, the Heritage Lottery Fund is running events across the country to share with others the difference our funding has made to every part of our nations heritage. In the North East we have commissioned young filmmakers from the Tyneside Cinema’s Northern Stars Academy to produce and direct their own film celebrating the North East’s amazing heritage.

Over the last 15 years HLF has not only revitalised hundreds of museums, parks, historic buildings, landscapes and wildlife sites, but also given new meaning to heritage itself; involving people from every walk of life in the heritage that inspires them.

The Northern Stars have been researching 15 HLF funded projects, one from each of the last 15 years, speaking to the people involved and looking at the effect that it has had on the surrounding community. The film entitled ‘Fifteen: North East Heritage’ has enabled the Northern Stars to take charge of the creative process, from speaking to the projects, filming, directing and editing. HLF funded projects featured in the film range from the Great North Museum to the introduction of Red Kites back to the North East.

Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in the North East Ivor Crowther said: “The North East is home to some of the countries most spectacular architecture, landscapes, wildlife and collections that have all been captured in the film directed by the young film makers. Not only has the commission produced a really professional film but it’s also taken them on a journey to really discover who they are and where they come from. The Northern Stars have done an amazing job at conveying the region’s heritage through the eyes of young people; they are a talented group and are an inspiration to others wanting to get into the film industry.”

Opinion formers from across the North East will be invited to watch a special screening of the film at the historic Tyneside Cinema in December.

In this issue we will be talking to the Northern Stars to find out what inspired them to get involved and what skills they have learned along the way.

SARAH YOUNAS – AGE ROLE IN FILM: PRODUCER

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO GET INVOLVED WITH ‘FIFTEEN’?

I wanted to get involved with ‘Fifteen’ because i thought that it would be an amazing experience, it really appealed to me because the Heritage Lottery Fund has done a lot for several different projects, each with their own important story. I loved how each of the projects had a community aspect, where everyone benefited and people were brought closer together.

WHAT DOES HERITAGE MEAN TO YOU? I think that Heritage is a big part of our identity, it’s our history and that history makes us what we are today. I think that heritage is an incredibly important thing because it tells us about our culture and without it we wouldn’t understand a lot about ourselves.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE PROJECT TO RESEARCH? My favourite project to research was probably HMS Trincomalee, which is a ship built in the 1800s in India. It’s really interesting to me that the ship had been restored to its original condition and you can walk around the museum and understand how people lived on a ship in those times.

WHAT ARE YOU CAREER AMBITIONS? In the future I would like to become a film producer.

DID YOU LEARN ANY NEW SKILLS WHILST MAKING THIS FILM? I developed my team building skills through working with people I hadn’t previously made a film with. Also my people skills improved through dealing with people over the phone and in interviewing.

DO YOU THINK THEY WILL BE BENEFICIAL TO YOU IN YOUR FUTURE CAREER? I definitely think that these skills will be beneficial to a future career, because in being a film producer you have to be organised and good with people.

Log on to our website www.hlf.org.uk

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WWW.HLF.ORG.UK

E

WILL JACKSON AGE 17

RACHEL DIXON AGE 16 ROLE IN FILM: DIRECTOR WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO GET INVOLVED WITH ‘FIFTEEN’?

I wanted to be involved with Fifteen’ because I’m passionate about filmmaking and I really wanted to display my creative mind to a wide audience. I was also interested in the history of certain projects around the North East and how they attract large amounts of visitors every year.

WHAT DOES HERITAGE MEAN TO YOU?

ROLE IN FILM: CINEMATOGRAPHER

Heritage is really important to me because future generations need to be educated about how their ancestors lived and it’s better to see it for real instead of reading about it in a textbook.

WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO GET INVOLVED WITH ‘FIFTEEN’?

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE PROJECT TO RESEARCH? My favourite project that I researched is probably the Tyneside cinema as I thought I knew a lot about it anyway. However, when we delved deeper and explored its history, its education and the transformation, I realised that there was so much more character to it. I also enjoyed researching the Heugh gun battery museum in Hartlepool because I had no knowledge on the project whatsoever.

WHAT ARE YOU CAREER AMBITIONS? My career ambition is to work in film behind the scenes as an assistant director or producer. For many years I have wanted to be a filmmaker because you do something different and challenging every day. The creative arts industry is probably the only sector that allows people’s imaginations to visualise a new world and then capture it on film for audiences to enjoy.

DID YOU LEARN ANY NEW SKILLS WHILST MAKING THIS FILM? I learnt many new skills whilst making this film including how to direct a film in the documentary style. I learnt everything from vox pops, to finding the right shot which I wouldn’t have been able to do without the mentors who prepared us for the real filmmaking world.

I wanted to be involved because it would be a fantastic opportunity to get professional experience in the industry, when experience is hard to come by in the North East. It also gave me an advantage for wanting to be a documentary film maker when I leave university.

WHAT DOES HERITAGE MEAN TO YOU? Retaining the memories and evidence of the past so we may learn and apply the lessons learned to the future.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE PROJECT TO RESEARCH? I was interested in the Tyneside Cinema as a regular visitor and its links to film-making. I also enjoyed working at the Great North Museum: Hancock because I had never visited before and did not know how interesting it was inside.

WHAT ARE YOU CAREER AMBITIONS? I hope to either become a wildlife documentary film-maker/ photographer, or to become a director of photography in feature films.

DID YOU LEARN ANY NEW SKILLS WHILST MAKING THIS FILM? I learned how to achieve particular results with the camera using intricate techniques and skills.

DO YOU THINK THEY WILL BE BENEFICIAL TO YOU IN YOUR FUTURE CAREER?

DO YOU THINK THEY WILL BE BENEFICIAL TO YOU IN YOUR FUTURE CAREER?

I think these skills will benefit me in whatever career path I choose to go in as I have been able to deal with people I’ve never met before and engage in their topic of conversation.

It will give me an advantage over other students who may not have experience in any course at university. It will also increase my job prospects when I am searching for employment.

WWW.HLF.ORG.UK

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PORT APPRENTICE DELIVERS WINNING RESULTS

PD Ports’ award winning training apprenticeship programme has led to further success for one of the ports and logistics businesses’ young apprentices.

As part of his four year course for a Higher National Certificate in Engineering, twenty year old engineering apprentice, Daniel McDougal developed a project that has led to significant safety improvements at North East based Teesport.

Daniel’s mechanical grab project, designed to fix grabs more safely to cranes, won him runner up prize in the Skills Showcase Event 2009 at Hartlepool College of Further Education.

How does it work? Well the grabs are attached to the Port’s Gottwald cranes and are used for discharging up to 30 bulk cargo vessels such as timber, coal, or animal feedstock, each year at Teesport and Hartlepool dock.

Speaking about Daniel’s project, Steve Keenan, PD Ports’ engineering director said the system was already implemented and used daily. He went on to say Daniel has helped to create a great, innovative solution, which has further improved the company’s safety record.

Events, such as the Skills Showcase Event are an excellent platform to promote engineering excellence and for PD Ports, it helps to benchmark its young apprentices against others. Daniel’s second place honour reinforces the true benefits of the Port’s training programmes and demonstrates, as a business, it’s on the right track.

This sort of involvement demonstrates the commitment that PD Ports, its local training provider, NETA Training Group and the whole engineering team have to delivering the best possible support to the Port’s apprentices.

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Two other PD Ports apprentices also took part in the Skills Showcase Event – Mark Gates with his dynamo-powered bicycle safety lighting system and James Cowley with his flood defence system.

Since the tailored training apprenticeship programme began some seven years ago, PD Ports has successfully led 22 young people through their apprenticeships.

PD Port’s commitment to the skills development of its young people is reflected in its local education relationships. The Port has close connections with Middlesbrough based, Gillbrook College and in the past has supported a number of students by providing work experience roles across the business.

Recently Gillbrook College achieved Specialist Arts Status and to mark this outstanding achievement, students from the college have been asked to design a sculpture which symbolises this achievement. As part of the Port’s ongoing relationship with Gillbrook College PD Ports will help judge the competition in December. The winning design will be taken into production and displayed at the college entrance. Although the sculpture is not likely to be unveiled until Easter 2010, it is hoped one of PD Ports’ 22 successful young apprentices will help to create the final design.

If you are interested in an apprenticeship with pD ports or if you are interested in what we have to offer, drop us a line on 01642 877200 or send an email to Kirsten potter, pR and Communications Manager at kirsten.potter@pdports.co.uk You can also read more about us and what we do by logging on to our website at www.pdports.co.uk

WWW.PDPORTS.CO.UK

NOWGEN BRINGS WORLD Human genomics, the study of genetics and the human genome, is poised to become part of UK science lessons thanks to a new programme launched by Nowgen, the Manchester-based centre for genetics in healthcare. The ‘Nowgen Schools Genomics Programme’ will bring cuttingedge scientific research into schools, exciting pupils about the pace of discovery and engaging them in thinking about how advances in genetics will affect their future lives.

LEADING GENETICS RESEARCH INTO SCHOOLS

Traditionally, it can take 10 years or more for new scientific discoveries to become integrated into science teaching. Nowgen’s Schools Genomics Programme aims to address this - narrowing the gap between genomics research and classroom genetics.

The project, funded by The Wellcome Trust, will include seminars for examiners on the latest developments in genomics and healthcare, offer students opportunities to visit research establishments and result in the production of three new Teachers TV programmes for students and teachers. The innovative three-year programme will be run by a team of Nowgen clinicians, scientists and educationalists.

As well as influencing how genetics is taught in schools, the project will look at new ways of integrating contemporary content into traditional science and within science related courses such as A-level Science in Society and The History and Philosophy of Science.

Peter Finegold, leader of the Schools Genomics Programme said: “Every day we read stories in the newspapers about how scientists have found genetic predictors for common diseases, such as cancer, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

“Nowgen’s Schools Genomics Programme will help young people to interpret what these news stories are saying, by providing greater insight into the complexity of the science, and into the implications on our society of applying this knowledge in a healthcare context.”

The project team expects to see some of the outcomes of its work included into GCE A-level specifications in England within the next five years and hopes it will be included in the major review of the GCSE science curriculum, due to be carried out in 2011.

Early discussions are also underway with key curriculum developers in Scotland.

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NORTHWEST

and Maths Science where they can take you!

– see

n ca u yo s er re ca ng ti ci ex e th of e m Discover so l Science, ve -le A ng yi ud st by t es w th or N e th do in .

Technology, Engineering and Maths Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths are the cornerstones of a productive nation and can affect everything we do in our daily lives. They form the basis for many careers and industries and can be fascinating in their own right.

The future of the region’s productivity lies heavily on young people choosing to stick with these exciting subjects, which are often referred to as STEM subjects. STEM subjects have the ability to improve the quality of people’s everyday lives and find solutions to global challenges, such as sustainable economic development.

Choose Science Science can allow you to discover how ideas contribute to technological change – affecting industry, business and the environment Science is far more diverse than the traditional Chemistry, Physics and Biology subjects

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Choose Technology Technology gives you the skills to understand of economic, industrial and environmental issues within industry and business Technology opens the door for careers in engineering – automotive, forensic, aerospace environmental… the list is truly endless

Choose Maths Maths is important for all members of a modern society, for its use in the workplace, business and finance Maths is the basic tool for understanding economics

Maths is essential for participation in the knowledge economy Maths gives you the ability to work on problems and in contexts beyond the school gates

Choose ICT ICT skills let you understand and apply skills purposefully in learning, everyday life and employment ICT presents numerous career opportunities that are fast-moving, full of variety, interesting and rewarding

www.futuremorph.org

Interested?

Visit www.FutureMorph.org to view just how exciting and rewarding studying technology, engineering or maths beyond the age of 16 can be. It isn’t just a one track road to becoming a scientist or engineer – the skills and knowledge you gain are valuable in almost any career and will make you very employable.

STEM Careers in the Northwest Energy & Environmental Technologies “Think Green” is the new hot topic on everyone’s lips – from homes to business, travel, transport and leisure, the future is definitely one that will be led by environmentally friendly and eco-conscious firms.

It is for this very reason that careers in the energy and environmental technologies sector are growing at a phenomenal rate – the range of jobs available in these industries is huge, especially in England’s Northwest, which is taking the lead on climate change, energy and wider sustainable development…. In a sector that nationally employs over 530,000 people there is no doubt that there is a career that would suit you. Over the next 10 years the sector needs to recruit over 14,000 people within the UK to replace those that are retiring or moving onto jobs in other industries, so there are plenty of opportunities at all levels.

The main categories of employment are management, scientific, technical and craft, commercial and sales, and administrative/clerical.

Demand is high for skilled engineers and technicians, scientists, operatives and customer care staff in particular and for flexibility and adaptability necessary across all occupations in an ever-changing working environment.

Where do I start?

As with many industries there are a number of ways to get into the top jobs. The most important factor is to ensure you have good grades – especially in maths, science and technology. Taking these subjects at A-Level or equivalent will stand you in good stead of working your way up the ladder.

Apprenticeships are a great opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised qualification, gain work experience and develop transferable skills - all while getting paid! Apprenticeships are available at several levels, including a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) or Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ). This includes key or core skills, employment rights and responsibilities and in some cases a Technical Certificate. By the end of the programme, the mix of training undertaken ensures that you are both competent to do the job you have been training for, and you have the essential underpinning knowledge and transferable skills.

Advanced Manufacturing Manufacturing is a crucial sector in the North West economy. Here are some key facts about four of the main manufacturing industries chemicals, aerospace, automotive and technical textiles: They employ around 400,000 people in the region - about 12% of the workforce.

There are over 20, 000 businesses across the four industries in the Northwest.

The industries are together worth almost £15 bn to the region’s economy.

All of these facts mean there are fantastic, exciting opportunities for you to start your career in manufacturing in the Northwest. Make sure you visit the Skills NW careers event in February, the biggest skills and careers event happening in the region, to get a real taste of different future career options in manufacturing.

Chemicals Chemicals are absolutely vital to our daily lives – they end up being used in loads of products and services we purchase every day. There may be many stages between the processing of a chemical and the final consumer, but it is estimated that each UK household either directly or indirectly spends around £30 per week on chemicals.

The North West is the largest regional centre for chemical manufacture in the UK and the sector employs 51,000 highly skilled people.

Chemicals is also one of the North West’s largest exporter and 60% of the world’s top 50 chemical manufacturers are based in the region, including major companies in: • Petrochemicals • Pharmaceuticals • Cleaning agents, soap and detergents • Performance and speciality chemicals • Agrochemicals • Polymers and plastics • Coatings • Advanced flexible materials.

These are just some of the well-known names located in the Northwest: AstraZeneca, Ineos Group, Unilever, Shell UK, Innospec, Solvay, Brunner Mond, Innovia Films, GrowHow and Johnson Matthey.

The North West region has a strong science and engineering base with 15,000 graduates each year in science, technology, and engineering and maths subjects. Universities in Manchester, Liverpool & Central Lancashire have major strengths with respect to chemical related research and a track record in innovation and Lancaster University complements a specialises in environmental chemistry.

You can start your career in chemicals through a wide range of routes - from apprenticeship schemes through to graduate and recruitment.

There is demand for people with diplomas, NVQs and degrees and there are also opportunities to study whilst working and move from NVQs through to foundations degrees and onwards…

Learn more about the industry and careers in chemicals at www.cogent-careers.com and www.chemicalsnorthwest.org.uk.

www.scienceandmaths.net

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TECHNICAL TEXTILES

AEROSPACE

The Advanced Flexible Materials sector is also known as Technical textiles. In technical textiles, the performance and physical properties are more important than other features, such as colour, style, handle and price.

Aerospace is one of the UK’s most highly-advanced and successful industries, with a turnover of £20 bn a year.

Firms in this industry produce textiles, materials, fabrics and composites and cater for a wide range of high performance end-use markets including

• Construction • Civil engineering • Industrial applications • Automotive & aerospace • Medical applications • Technical and high performance garments.

There are about 450 companies in technical textiles in the Northwest, employing 22,000 people. This is the largest technical textile cluster in Europe. The sector supplies materials to a large number of businesses in other sectors so it is a really important sector in the region.

EXAMPLES OF MATERIALS USED IN TECHNICAL TEXTILES ARE: • Composite materials are used in F1 cars, top-end sports cars and aircraft.

• Protective clothing materials are used in military and police uniforms and bullet proof products.

• Automotive fabrics are used in sound insulation, seat fabrics and airbags.

• Industrial fabrics are used in camouflage and beltings for the print and aluminium industries.

• Medical fabrics are used to make bandages and replacement joints.

It is possible to get into technical textiles through apprenticeships, further education NVQs and degree courses.

Find out more about career opportunities at www.skillfast-uk.org/justthejob/ and www.nwtexnet.co.uk

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The Northwest aerospace industry is the largest in the UK, accounts for almost one third of total UK turnover, employs over 60, 000 people and is recognised as a global centre of excellence. In total, more than 100 major aircraft types have their roots in the region. The major aerospace companies all have a presence in the region – BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce and Airbus.

There are great opportunities in aerospace design and engineering.

The industry is at the forefront of efforts to tackle the climate change impacts of transport and we are beginning to see revolutionary changes to aircraft design. Aerospace engineers design and develop products such as:

• Airliners • Helicopters • Fighter jets • Satellites • Space vehicles engineers.

They also work on components that make up aircraft such as landing gear, engines and electrical/electronic systems also require highly specialised skills.

Specialist opportunities include careers in:

• Aerodynamics • propulsion • Manufacturing Management • Materials & structures.

• Avionics • Systems Iwntegration Get more information on careers in aerospace at www.semta.org.uk/careers__qualifications.aspx and www.aerospace.co.uk.

WWW.APPRENTICESHIPS.ORG.UK

AUTOMOTIVE

DIGITAL & CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

The automotive industry is very important to our economy. Nationally, it employs 200,000 people in over 3,000 companies. The Northwest is the second most significant region for the industry in the UK. In 2007 we produced over 220,000 cars and over 20,000 trucks and buses.

As the ‘wow-factor’ goes, a career in the Digital & Creative Industries won’t disappoint. England’s Northwest is internationally recognised as a hub of creative talent, with an incredible amount to offer those who wish to pursue a career in this exciting industry.

Some key facts about the Northwest automotive industry • Worth over £9 bn per year • Employs over 40,000 people in 500 companies.

• The auto industry in the Northwest specialises in making commercial vehicles – particularly buses and trucks.

• To respond to climate change the government has set big targets to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from vehicles by 60% by 2050.

Already, average new car emissions have dropped by 12 per cent in nine years, thanks to investment in technologies like hybrids, biofuel cars, low-emission diesels and improvements in fuel economy.

• Northwest companies are pushing ahead with systems to improve the environmental impact of vehicles. For example, Torotrak in Leyland have developed new transmission systems to cut vehicle’s fuel consumption.

• They are also involved in the development of new systems for energy storage which will be used in the 2009 F1 season.

• The need to continue environmental improvements will create more opportunities for engineering careers in the region.

The industry is looking for young people who have the right technical and personal skills and are keen to meet the challenges of new technology. In the manufacturing sector, traditional engineering skills are influenced more and more by advances in robotics and computers but also personal leadership skills. Companies need engineers with electronics, systems and software skills. These are the roles in demand by the industry:

• Design engineers • Electronic engineers • production engineers • Technicians • Maintenance • Tool-making • prototyping You can get more information on careers in automotive at www.semta.org.uk and www.nwautoalliance.com

There are no hard or fast rules when it comes to training, however the right personality and tons of enthusiasm can get you a head start. It is a very competitive environment and to get ahead you have to be willing to work hard with 100% commitment - Whether you want to work behind-the-scenes, in front-of-camera or in the expanding world of digital or interactive platforms, there’s a lot that you can do to improve your chances of success. In terms of creative buzz, few careers provide the same job satisfaction as those in the media and if you’ve got what it takes, the rewards can be great.

If you don’t know where to start, don’t worry, you’re not alone!

Many people who now have a dream job were once in your position.

A bit of timely research might just give you the kick-start you need.

For training, advice and all the latest recruitment news visit www.skillset.org - Skillset is the UK’s Audio Visual Industries Sector Skills Council, covering areas such as broadcast, film, video, interactive media and photo imaging – they can help with the different jobs that are available and the career routes open to you.

WWW.NWDA.CO.UK WWW

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T S R I F Y SAFET A L E G N A FOR

Angela Rak, 28, e, ov ab d an C es ad gr h 9 GCSEs at ted to study leisure After leaving school wit op e Sh . ke ta to th pa hich career e of subjects, ng ra ed ri was uncertain about w va a d re ve co because the course r to settle on a he e ir and tourism at college sp in ld ou w d pe fety, which she ho s UK in Stalybridge in al including health and sa ic m he oc tr Pe l ta To itially joined acted to the idea of tr career choice. Angela in at as w e sh , ch ar se ing some re oyed by the company as a sales role but after do pl em y tl en rr cu is a el safety. Ang ng to become a ni ai tr is a career in health and d an or at tr is in ty Executive) adm a HSE (Health and Safe r. health and safety office

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WWW.CHEMICALSNORTHWEST.ORG.UK

“WORKING AT TOTAL MADE ME MORE AWARE OF HOW IMPORTANT HEALTH AND SAFETY IS, PARTICULARLY FOR A BUSINESS THAT OPERATES IN THE PETROCHEMICALS SECTOR.” “I first started at Total Petrochemicals UK as a sales administrator for the elastomers part of the business before moving into a sales role for polystyrene. Total is a great place to work – as a global organisation there are opportunities to work at other plants in other countries or within different divisions but I couldn’t help thinking that my role in sales wasn’t challenging enough; many of my day-today tasks were quite repetitive.

After doing some research, I decided that I wanted to gain some further knowledge and qualifications in health and safety. I’d already had an introduction to the subject when we covered it as a module in my leisure and tourism course at college but since I’d been working at Total, I’d become more aware of how important health and safety is, particularly for a business that operates in the petrochemicals sector. I also felt that health and safety offered a career path with longevity that would give me the opportunity to specialise in certain areas, if that’s what I wanted to do in the long term.

I enrolled on an evening course at The Manchester College and studied for my NEBOSH National General Certificate, which is really the first step for anyone interested in a career in health and safety. Luckily, a vacancy for a HSE administrator then came up

within the health and safety department at Total, which I applied for successfully. After I got the job, I started attending college one day a week, studying for a diploma in Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental Management from Nottingham Trent University.

I completed the course earlier this year and will be graduating in December.

My job involves working closely with the health and safety manager and health and safety officer on site. On a typical day my duties are mainly administrative, for example reviewing and inputting accidents and incidents onto our in-house database, keeping and issuing minutes from our meetings and maintaining and updating records.

I am a trained auditor and regularly take part in internal audits on the plant and office areas, and I’ve carried out external audits on our suppliers too. I’m also a qualified manual handling trainer and have given in house manual handling training to all employees on the plant. I particularly enjoy taking part in chemical awareness and spill response training in which I set up a scenario for the trainees to work through which involves creating a mock chemical spillage.

I also assist the health and safety officer in health surveillance monitoring, which involves taking water samples and testing for legionella, measuring noise and air sampling, air emissions and water effluent samples.

The variety of my job is such that earlier this year I also got the opportunity to take part in judging the Total Green School Awards, which aim to assist and encourage environmental education for young people aged 5-11. I travelled to our office in London to sit on the judging panel and eventually accompanied the winning schools on a day trip to London Zoo. The advice I have always been given is that if you work hard, you will be appreciated and rewarded, and this has worked for me so far. Don’t rule out working in industries that you might not be that familiar with, like petrochemicals, because often they offer a more challenging and exciting working environment as well as a wide variety of opportunities.”

WWW.CHEMICALSNORTHWEST.ORG.UK

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E R I H S A C N A L R E H G I AIMH S E I T I S R E V I N U R E M M SU

R WHAT IS AN AIMHIGHE SUMMER UNIVERSITY?

A place on an Aimhigher Summer University is an opportunity for you to find out everything about Higher Education and going to ‘uni’.

We won’t put you under any pressure to apply to university or college – you’ll be given enough information to be able to decide for yourself.

YOU’LL ExpERIENCE WHAT IT’S LIKE: • • • • • • • • • •

Just how hard do you have to work?

What’s it like living in student halls?

Is living at home a good option?

What kind of jobs can you get with a degree?

And what sort of money can you earn?

Student finances- what would you need to do a part time job?

How many hours would you have to work?

What sort of work pays best?

Student support – who is there to help you as a student?

Fees, grants and student loans – what are they?

WE AIM TO ANSWER ALL YOUR qUESTIONS (AND SOME YOU HAvEN’T THOUGHT OF YET!).

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COMING ALONG TO A SUMMER UNIvERSITY WILL bE pARTICULARLY USEFUL IF: • You are thinking of applying for university or college • You don’t know anyone who has been to university that you could ask for advice • You don’t know what subjects you might study

AND A SUMMER UNIvERSITY WILL:

• Help you decide about your future • Give you a real taste of university life • Give you the opportunity to try out different academic subjects Four universities are running Aimhigher residential Summer Universities specifically for Year 10 learners in Cumbria and Lancashire in 2010, each lasting 4 days. They are absolutely free and are designed for students just like you.

WWW.AIMHIGHER.AC.UK/LANCASHIRE

GETTING THERE AND STAYING THERE! TRAvEL

The Summer University school coordinator will arrange the easiest way for you to travel and this will be free. They might send a minibus or coach to collect you, or send you a train or bus ticket. They may contact you discuss the best way for you to travel.

Either way, they’ll make sure that you can get to the Summer University (and back of course!), and they’ll meet you when you arrive and help you to settle in.

WHERE WILL YOU bE STAYING?

You will be staying in student accommodation. It could be a hall of residence, flat or house. All of these normally consist of a number of study bedrooms and shared kitchen/social space and bathroom facilities. Girls and boys are housed in separate areas.

WILL IT bE LIKE SCHOOL?

Absolutely not! Summer University offers you the chance to try out subjects you

don’t get to study at school. Check out the details for each Summer University from your school coordinator and look for the subjects that interest you most. Group work, information sessions, workshops and off-campus visits will be led by university or college lecturers and postgraduate students.

ACTIvITIES

For many students, sport and their social life are as important as their academic work. Universities typically have over 100 different clubs and societies and they will all want you to join! Summer University will give you a taste of this, and you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy yourself.

Disabled student and students with special needs are welcome on the Summer Universities.

If you have any special needs please write them on your application form. You are the expert on your particular need/s so your Summer University coordinator will probably phone and talk to you before you arrive.

The more information we have in advance the better we can support you during the Summer University.

WHAT DO I DO TO bE AbLE TO GO ON A SUMMER UNIvERSITY?

Summer Universities are funded by Aimhigher Lancashire and Cumbria and places are only available to pupils who are resident in the following local authorities and who have been offered the chance to apply:

bLACKbURN WITH DARWEN bLACKpOOL CUMbRIA LANCASHIRE Ask the Aimhigher Coordinator in your school for further information.

GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR AppLICATION!

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You’ve achieved a great deal in your sport, what qualities do you think you need to succeed?

It helps that I love what I do, but I am also dedicated and determined to be the best number 10 that I can be. My mum worked incredibly hard to make sure that I could go to good schools and I have learnt how important it is to work hard to achieve your dreams.

What has been your greatest achievement so far and what made it so special? What else would you like to achieve?

My greatest achievement so far is playing for England and it’s my goal to play as many more times as I possibly can.

What did you want to be when you were a child?

I always knew I wanted to do something that was sports related, even though my mum wanted me to be a doctor.

How did you find school and were you a good student?

I had a great time at school, they really are the best days of your life as you have nothing else to worry about. I really liked English and sport.

What put you on your current path?

I was incredibly lucky to be spotted by the Wasps Academy at the age of 15, so I knew what I was going to do when I left school.

What advice do you have for someone who thinks that uni might not be for them?

All the people I know who have gone to university have really enjoyed it, but I don’t think it’s for everyone. Even if I hadn’t been a professional rugby player, I don’t think I would have gone to university, I would have much preferred to learn a trade and start earning straight away. I would definitely recommend that people look at all their options, including vocational qualifications.

“I always knew I wanted to do ” something that was sports related

yers of his generation, As one of the most gifted rugby pla ck Danny Cipriani, never really England and London Wasps full-ba g what he wanted to do in life. struggled when it came to decidin known that his future would However, even though he’s always considering their options involve rugby he says that for anyone ad. you need to be flexible and plan ahe

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What advice would you give to school and college leavers for making a success of their careers?

I think the important thing is to find something you really enjoy – it certainly makes the rainy days go quicker! Find someone who does a job that you think you might like and talk to them about what it involves and get as much work experience as you can. For that reason I am holding a sports master class in August for Alliance & Leicester and their Premier 21 Account and people can win a chance to spend a day with me and learn about the sports industry.

www.NOTGOINGTOUNI.co.uk

SCOTLAND

Qualifications for the Real World Thousands of people in Scotland have been helped on the road to jobs or degree courses after gaining HN qualifications – some are well known in the field of politics, business, commerce, industry and show business but countless thousands more have pursued careers using HNs as their own individual launch pad.

About Higher National qualifications?

There are two types, Higher National Certificates (HNC) and Higher National Diplomas (HND) at SCQF Level 7 (see below) and SCQF Level 8. They’re both developed by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) in partnership with colleges, universities industry and commerce.

HNCs and HNDs are aimed at developing the skills and knowledge needed for today’s modern workplace. They also come with the added advantage that that they can help individuals change jobs, improve career prospects or act as a stepping stone to further study.

Crucially, these vocational qualifications focus on practical skills and their application in the workplace. They also provide students with a sound understanding of the subject matter plus the background knowledge they need to be able to apply their skills in new and challenging situations.

HNs cover lots of occupational areas and give people loads of knowledge, plus some experience to help them get work in the area of their choice.

With almost 250 HN courses available covering subjects from the traditional – accounting , business, childcare, computing, engineering, hospitality – to the newer – creative industries, paralegal, sports and leisure, there’s definitely going to be something that’s right up your street. Just to check out your local college website to see what subjects they offer.

62

What do I need to study for a HNC or HND?

Getting onto a course is down to the individual colleges, though the best way is with qualifications or relevant work experience.

Contact the college you’re interested in or check their website to get specific information.

But even if you’re not quite ready for an HNC there are courses available to get you there.

There are courses that can be undertaken on a full-time basis or part-time and others through day-release or evening classes.

Where do they lead?

HNCs provide access to the matching HND courses, or if you wanted to get straight in to work, a HN graduate is qualified for first level employment in the specialism/industry of their choice. Plus lots of HNCs and HNDs provide direct entry to second or third year of university courses.

What’s in it for me?

HNs are predominantly practical courses that let you get some hands on experience in your chosen area. There are no formal exams, with continual assessment ongoing throughout the course.

Are HNs professionally recognised qualifications?

HNs meet the National Occupational Standards - which means they’re also professionally recognised by many industry bodies.

What do I do now?

Just take a look at the websites of the colleges you’re interested in. They’ll list the range of HNCs and HNDs they offer, together with an overview of what the course will cover, and other important things like funding.

www.hninfo.org.uk

HN Qualifications : HN Qualifications have played a unique part in Scottish life since they were first introduced over 80 years ago – and there’s no doubt they continue to do so.

These distinctly Scottish awards benefit both employers and individuals and, as a result, the country as whole.

As a learner, HNs can offer you: n new vocational skills n practical qualifications n expert training n employment openings n potential university entrance

For further information please visit www.hninfo.org.uk

MATHS - IS THE MAGIC IMAGE COURTESY OF FIELD OPERATOR CHEVRON NORTH SEA LIMITED

in MATHS is the most widely used subject in the world – needed not only unting, everyday life but in all sorts of jobs from the obvious ones like acco . engineering and retail through to nursing, teaching and construction It also plays a vital part in many careers within the oil and gas industry so the driving force behind securing the industry’s workforce for the future is working with a number of organisations to encourage the uptake of maths, science, technology and engineering (STEM) subjects in schools.

OPITO - The Oil & Gas Academy supports a range of exciting, activity-based projects which encourage pupils to have fun with maths. Among them is the Maths In The Pipeline project, run by the charitable organisation TechFest-SetPoint, which gives school pupils the chance to turn their mathematical skills to tackling realistic problems encountered in the oil and gas industry.

a deadline to meet youngsters get a taste of what it is like working in the high-pressure oil and gas industry. Each team is called upon to give a five minute presentation of their solution with all team members taking part.

Vivien Ellins, STEM co-ordinator for TechFest-SetPoint, said: “Most of us use maths everyday without really thinking about it: paying for lunch in the cafeteria, getting the right fare for the bus on the way home, figuring out what we can watch on television in the evening. Maths In The Pipeline takes this a step further by showing how mathematics is applied across a range of disciplines and real everyday tasks within the oil and gas industry.

A full day of mathematical workshops and challenges for fourth year students, the programme is based on real data from the Captain drilling field in the Moray Firth off the north-east coast of Scotland.

With coaching from real geologists, engineers and technicians working in the energy sector, pupils carry out a range of activities from estimating the volume of an oil field using graphs and calculations on a geological contour map to working as a team to determine the trend for the production of gas from the field and plotting the most efficient route for piloting a helicopter out to the field.

The day ends with a business challenge in which pupils are tasked with working as a team to optimise the development of a new field in Azerbaijan looking at oil well development, production and costs.

With choices to be made, health and safety to be considered and

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The business presentation is an important part of the day

WWW.OPITO.COM

IC NUMBER Pupils use their maths skills to calculate real-life scenarios

g,

“These experts all use maths in their jobs, they enjoyed and studied maths at school and many continued studying maths at university. As well as motivating pupils to continue studying science, technology, engineering and maths subjects, working as a team helps the students to build on some of the key skills which potential employers will be looking for when they reach that stage in their careers.”

Maths In The Pipeline has run for five years in Aberdeen and for the past two years in Inverness, reaching over 600 young mathematicians. This year saw students in Glasgow take part for the first time.

“This is a brilliant way for young people to apply what they know about maths to real exploration, forecasting and navigation problems and see how the things they learn in the classroom are used by professionals in everyday life,” said Maureen Traquair, the Academy’s education manager.

“All the participants have said how much they enjoy working alongside the ‘real people doing the real job’ and it has opened their eyes to just how many opportunities are available to those with an ability and enthusiasm for mathematics.”

Pupils can build their knowledge further through the follow-on project, STEM In The Pipeline in which senior pupils studying at Advanced Higher Level and/or thinking about a career in the oil and gas industry discover that to tackle a real industry problem you must integrate your subject knowledge of physics, maths, chemistry and geology.

ke If you would li re to find out mo the about Maths in ct Pipeline, conta air Maureen Traqu 00 on 01224 7878 or visit www. t. techfestsetpoin org.uk

WWW.TECHFESTSETPOINT.ORG.UK

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K O O C 2 T ME

to cook it!... ve lo e w , so e or m en ev d an od...

Here at W2G we love our nfoand pull on that old oven glove. It’s... so tie on that apro

Bargain Baked Risotto INGREDIENTS n n n n n n n n n

2 table spoons oil 1 onion 1 tea spoon salt 180g aribo rice 375ml water 1 can tomatoes 60g parmazan pepper corgette in thin slices

METHOD...

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

On a med. Heat, fry sliced onion for 5 min Then fry the rice for 1 min Add the liquid and tomatoes Stir Add veg Top with cheese Lid on casserole dish. Oven, 200 degrees Celcius, 30 min Nice with fresh parsley if you have any...

Serves:

4

TIME: 40 MINS COST: 70-75P A HEAD MORE EXCITING RECIPE’S FROM MARTY THE MIT NEXT TIME!!!

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