Secondary school students step into STEM

Teenagers from nine local secondary schools came together to explore careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) at Teesside University.

150 students took part in inspiring discussions and practical workshops in construction, engineering, mathematics and biology.

They extracted DNA from strawberries, built bridges and towers, and completed a personal protective equipment (PPE) workshop.

The event was delivered in partnership with the North East STEM Foundation (NESF), an education charity which breaks down barriers and creates opportunities for young people to explore and excel in STEM.

Industry practitioners and academic experts from Teesside University, 3M, SRG Talent, Balfour Beatty, MGL Group, JN Bentley, Red Scientific, Sir Robert McAlpine, Jiahua Chemical and Steel Benders delivered the interactive sessions and shared insight into their careers.

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

Fechi, 14, from Outwood Academy, wants to become an aerospace engineer.

She said: “Events like these are really important because they give you a better understanding of the course and career you might want to do in the future. You get to see if you vibe with it.

“I enjoyed being in the Teesside University buildings with the labs.”

Thomas, 13, from Freebrough Academy, added: “I enjoyed the first workshop because we got to use magnetic bricks to build a tower while working together.

“Being here helps me with what I’m going to do in the future.”

The activities took place in Teesside University’s state-of-the-art Digital Life building, an innovative research, teaching and learning facility incorporating smart laboratories, artificial intelligence and robotics suites, digital art studios and one the world's largest fully immersive simulation suites.

Digital Life is designed to develop future-ready skills through hands-on experimentation, supporting both national ambitions to strengthen digital capability and the region’s goal of becoming a leading creative tech hub.

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

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

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

Michelle Henderson, Director of Foundation Development at NESF, said: "Our aim is to help students make the connection between what they learn in the classroom and the careers they could pursue in the future.

“By bringing employers and young people together, we can provide valuable insight into the skills, qualifications and attributes businesses are looking for while helping students understand the breadth of opportunities available to them.

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

Teesside University was ranked highest in the North East and 12th in England in the latest Social Mobility Index published by the Higher Education Policy Institute in March 2025.

The results reflect the University’s continued commitment to supporting students from all backgrounds into higher education, working closely with schools, colleges and communities across the region to create clear pathways.

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