Two units of work in the A level Engineering course require close links with industry and the trips enable students to experience the sort of working environments they could be a part of in a few years time.
Leyland trucks, who assemble the DAF LF, CF and XF range, work closely with engineering staff at Carr Hill to develop a customised tour of the facility. Students also had the opportunity to interview engineers about their job roles.
During the visit the pupils were given the chance to sit in the trucks and have a go at some of the assembly processes! However, the primary aim of their visit was to learn about the day to day work of a variety of engineers in the company, examine how technology influences the product such as CAD, CAM, robotics, computer systems and control.
They also learnt about the impact that legislation and standards have on the company and the product before examining a specific part , evaluating it and suggesting modifications.
Engineering teacher Mrs Dandy said: “Year 12 were buzzing with enthusiasm after their visit and were clearly impressed by the company and enthusiastic about their future career paths in engineering.”
Meanwhile Year 13s visited MGS Technical Plastics. MGS specialise in injection moulding and manufacturers a wide variety of well products. Year 13’s visit focused again on the technology and legislation that influences the design and manufacture of engineering product, but also on the environmental impact engineering businesses have. MGS is new to working with A level students and worked closely with the engineering department at school to develop a detailed and customised visit to enable the student to get the most out of their time.
Mrs Dandy said: “Both companies have been exceptional in their attitude to promoting engineering to young people. Without engineering companies support, like MGS and Leyland Trucks, the students cannot fully put their learning into context. The benefit of visits like this to the students is the real world aspect.”
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