Manufacturing Meets Inspiration: A Pioneering Schools Roadshow Programme delivered by The Work-wise Foundation in collaboration with Make UK!
The Work-wise Foundation kicked off its first-ever Schools Roadshow in style in collaboration with Make UK, celebrating National Manufacturing Day on September 26th, and it was nothing short of amazing! These roadshows are all about giving students a sneak peek into the world of manufacturing—breaking down barriers, busting myths, and showing just how rewarding a future in this sector can be.
Day 1: Humberside Adventures – Boilers, Chassis, and Plastics!
Day 1 was jam-packed with action as students from Wyke Sixth Form Academy, Goole Academy, and Vale Academy got an exclusive backstage pass to three of Humberside’s top manufacturing companies: Groupe Atlantic, Advanced Plastics, and Gateway Chassis. It was all about seeing where the magic happens and learning that manufacturing isn’t just about machines—it’s about innovation, passion, and problem-solving.
- Groupe Atlantic, students were led on a whirlwind tour of the factory, explaining how they maintain quality, test new designs, and why they’re investing big in their facilities. Students got an up-close look at the whole process, from start to finish.
- Gateway Chassis, where students learned how holiday home chassis and structural metalwork are fabricated. The team gave them the lowdown on the manufacturing process and even dropped some insights on career development opportunities.
- Advanced Plastics, after learning all about how injection moulding works, students were blown away by the state-of-the-art machines churning out parts for cars and central heating boilers. Quality control? They got to see that in action too, and it was pretty mind-blowing.
Day 1 Finale: Team-Building and Career Pathways
After the factory insights, the students headed to The University of Hull's Aura Innovation Centre for some team-building activities and a tour of the facilities that support future innovation and technology in the Humberside region. There, they dove deep into exciting future innovations and career pathways in engineering and manufacturing.
Day 2: Sheffield Shines – From Surgical Blades to Space-Age Gearboxes!
Day 2 took students from The Willows School and Sheffield UTC on a whirlwind tour of Sheffield's manufacturing marvels: Swann Morton, Gripple, and Magnomatics. These companies may be different, but they share one thing in common—passion for their craft.
- Swann Morton took students back in time to 1932 when they started making blades. Today, they’re known globally for their surgical blades. The students got to see the whole high-volume, low-cost production process and heard from employees who take immense pride in their work.
- Gripple has been manufacturing wire locking and tensioning systems for 30 years. Here’s where things got interesting—students completed a quiz as they toured the production process! It was a fun way to learn about apprenticeships, work experience, and the many ways to kickstart a career at Gripple.
- At Magnomatics, students were introduced to futuristic magnetic gearboxes that replace traditional gears with a high-efficiency, low-friction alternative. The knowledgeable team explained the intricacies of their design and manufacturing process. High-tech and fascinating!
Day 2 Finale: A Sheffield College Experience
After the tours, it was time for a visit to The Sheffield College, Olive Grove Site, home of engineering, motor vehicles, gas fitting and plumbing. Where students explored the facilities and learned about their wide range of further education options. Providing insights into future pathways.
Day 3: A Fusion of Innovation – Atomic Energy, Electric Drive Systems, and Power Integration!
Day 3 took things to the next level, with visits to UK Atomic Energy Authority, Magtec, and CMD. Students from Sheffield Springs Academy, Doncaster UTC, and Wales High School were in for an electrifying experience (literally!).
- At UK Atomic Energy Authority, students learned about the mind-boggling world of nuclear fusion. They explored the technical challenges of building fusion reactors and got to see the cutting-edge test equipment used to make it all happen. A science lesson like no other!
- Over at CMD, the students saw how the company’s products integrate power and AV/data access in offices. From underfloor systems to desktop solutions, CMD gave them a front-row seat to how ideas are transformed into products—and how they’re manufactured to perfection.
- Finally, at Magtec, it was all about electric drive systems for buses, HGVs, and military vehicles. Students got a behind-the-scenes tour of the production process, watching vehicles being converted from diesel to electric. They even met the engineering team who design the software for these innovative propulsion systems!
Day 3 Finale: AMRC Training Centre Fun!
To wrap up the roadshow, students headed to the AMRC Training Centre for a tour, a talk on education pathways, and some hands-on fun! From virtual welding to 3D printing and team-building exercises, it was the perfect way to end three days of manufacturing exploration.
A Celebration of Inspiration!
These roadshows aren’t just about learning—they’re about inspiring the next generation. The Work-wise Foundation and Make UK’s National Manufacturing Day Roadshows show students that manufacturing isn’t just a career option—it’s a world of possibilities. With cutting-edge technology, innovation at every corner, and a chance to make a real impact, who wouldn’t be excited?
We can’t wait to see what the next generation of creators, engineers, and innovators will bring!