University News Last updated 30 January 2014
Birmingham City University this week hosted (29 January) the launch of the Birmingham Made Me ‘Schools Design Programme’, taking an innovative approach to engaging school pupils in actively designing and making products for the future around the themes of Live, Play and Move, focusing on sustainability and well-being.
Over 120 young people from 11 schools across the West Midlands gathered at the University’s Faculty of Technology, Engineering and the Environment (TEE), for an action packed event involving designing and making challenges, engaging 3D print machines and business leaders to highlight the many areas where design and innovation are making a difference in relation to the region being able to compete internationally.
Black Country Atelier’s Paul Verdeyen provided inspiration from a combination of traditional and new technologies, highlighting examples of excellence, including Morgan Motor Cars, Acme Whistles, Edward Perry, Jaguar Land Rovers recent successes and Aston Martin, including the 3D print model used and exploded in Skyfall, saving the film company £225k.
Students’ eyes were opened to the possibilities brought about by applying technology, creativity and business skills, including through the creation of the Prometheus helmet, produced in Birmingham by CMA Moldform.
Bill Good, Chief Executive of Diverco, emphasised the opportunities for careers in design and innovation offered to young people today and covering sectors as diverse as jewellery, home interiors, aerospace and automotive engineering. Speaking about the event, Bill said: “It’s so important to stimulate the creativity of the young. They are our future and I congratulate the organisers of this event for playing their part here.”
Organiser of the Schools Design Programme, Will Evans of Amery Brothers said: “It’s been fantastic to see the enthusiastic response of the pupils here today. The commitment by the schools to be involved in the Birmingham Made Me Design Expo and to engage with businesses, including the design giants across the Midlands, is tremendous and we are keen to facilitate this wherever we can.”
Beverley Nielsen, Director of Employer Engagement at Birmingham City University said: “At Birmingham City University we recognise that we play a vital role in training the talent required for our businesses into the future.
“As home to many inspiring design based courses at the Birmingham Institute of Art & Design, including fashion, textiles, visual and product design, as well as in our Birmingham City Business School, School of Media and Faculty of TEE, we’re keen to ensure that young people realise what exciting careers they can build right here in the Midlands and that companies can access the talent pool of amazing young people we are committed to providing the best opportunities for as they develop.
“We have constructed an exciting Schools Design Programme and all schools are welcome to join in. It is building towards our Schools Awards event in early May when we will recognise and celebrate the creativity which was certainly more than evident at our launch event today.”
For more information contact Beverley Nielsen at Beverley.nielsen@bcu.ac.uk