Worcestershire primary students participate in STEM challenge at Mazak

More than 80 Worcestershire primary school students competed in the thrilling Primary STEM Challenge final hosted by Yamazaki Mazak.

This marked the third successive year in which the final was held at Mazak’s European Technology Centre.

STEMworks UK organised the contest which was designed to promote interest and skills in science, technology, engineering, and maths among young learners.

This year’s brief, developed in partnership with Worcestershire Highways, was centred on improving crossings for pedestrians and cyclists on busy roads.

The students were tasked with designing a system for moving and installing a footbridge made from K’Nex.

Each team was assigned a simulated weight to move over a set height and distance.

The busy day also included a guided visit to Mazak’s European Technology Centre, where the students were given the chance to help program some of the company's latest machine tools.

Sarah Lalor, from STEMworks UK said: "I am always thrilled to be a part of these events.

Over 80 students from 46 schools across Worcestershire took part in the 2024 final.  (Image: Yamazaki Mazak)

"It is vital that we provide young children with the opportunities to develop the essential skills that spring out of STEM subjects.

"Without these skills, young people may struggle to adapt to the working world.

"Positive experiences like these finals are helping to ensure children have exposure to potential STEM careers to support the development of their skillsets and inspire them to work in a STEM field in the future."

Max Jones, people development manager for Yamazaki Mazak UK said: "The Primary STEM Challenge final has quickly become a mainstay in the Mazak calendar and it was an absolute pleasure to once again host students from across the county.

"Mazak has been part of the Worcestershire community for over 35 years, with many of our employees having been to the same schools that participated in the final.

"Engaging with local pupils at such an early age is critical to creating excitement about the manufacturing industry, ultimately helping to address the long-term engineering skills shortage and developing the next generation of engineers."