Continuing its collaboration with local schools and colleges, members of Xaar visited St. Peter’s School, Huntingdon for its recent Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Day. Supported by engineering organisation, the Smallpeice Trust, over 50 local Year 10 students attended, with the day held on 18th January deemed a great success.
The event gave an opportunity for students to engage with Xaar, with practical tasks reinforcing the benefits of STEM subjects and their importance for future career opportunities. Xaar’s six-strong team, who were involved in organising the event, were on hand to help pupils fully explore and understand the wealth of future opportunities available within its industry, especially for inkjet head development.
After an initial presentation about Xaar and its research and manufacturing processes based in Huntingdon and Cambridge, students were set several challenges. An introductory task of building the tallest tower (capable of supporting a weight of 100g) out of only A4 paper, engaged them from the start. The students then had to design, build and market some audio speakers and as they were able to take these home at the end of the event, it proved to be a very popular result for the students! New soldering, design, manufacturing, electronics and marketing skills were developed during the day, along with understanding the importance of team building.
With a focus on shining a spotlight on career opportunities through STEM subjects, and increasing awareness of career possibilities within Xaar, working with schools in the community is a key part of the business’ Sustainability Roadmap and engagement within its local community. Xaar’s commitment to this initiative has seen several STEM events taking place, developing long-term relationships with a number of local schools, colleges and educational trusts, and raising awareness of the career and apprenticeship opportunities within the company and the industry at large.
