Bringing technology to life in our local schools

Wythenshawe students got a hands-on introduction to the exciting world of technology thanks to our participation in a new partnership between BW3 and the Royal Institution.

As part of the Royal Institution’s Masterclasses programme, our IT team visited local schools to deliver fun, interactive workshops designed to spark curiosity and build confidence in computer science and technology.

The sessions covered a range of exciting topics, including artificial intelligence, inclusive technology, Football Manager and satellite vision. Pupils had the chance to explore how technology is shaping the world around them through practical activities and real-life examples.

The Royal Institution Masterclasses are free workshops that encourage young people to explore STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) beyond the classroom. By working with local schools, we’re helping inspire the next generation of digital thinkers and problem-solvers.

It’s all part of our commitment to creating opportunities for young people in our community and showing them the exciting careers and possibilities that technology can offer.

Our colleagues who presented the workshops said:

“The kids were all super engaged. They all got stuck in to trying to write their name with a pencil without using their hands, and had some great thoughts on how it would feel if they weren’t able to use their favourite tech items because they didn’t meet their needs. We met some people who have been revolutionising the inclusive technology world, and then the kids all had a go at designing their own inclusive games console controller. They were all polite and engaged – I had so many hands flying up to answer questions!” – Beth, our Digital Innovation Manager

“When I saw the BW3 Masterclass programme, I thought it was a great chance to get involved with local schools and talk to young people about STEM and the range of careers and possibilities available to them. My session focused on Artificial Intelligence, and it was brilliant to hear what young people thought about AI and have some really interesting conversations about the impact it’s already having and what the future might look like. Hopefully it inspired a few of them to explore STEM further!” – Alex, our Product Owner

“I was keen to get involved as my journey into IT was unconventional and the STEM subjects were my least favourite at school! We delivered a masterclass on Technology and Engineering with a Football Manager theme. The session went well, and we had a great group of kids who were very engaged with the activities. I was particularly impressed with the intelligence and behaviour on display.” – Lewis, our Technical Solutions Analyst

“I participated in the STEM masterclass as I thought it would be a fun way of combining football and learning. I found the children really polite and engaging (even the ones who weren’t crazy about football)!” – Valerie, our Business Analyst

Helen Mullen, Assistant Principal: Personal Development at Dixon’s Newall Green Academy, said: “Our Year 5 students thoroughly enjoyed the engaging STEM sessions. The workshops were expertly facilitated, bringing scientific concepts to life in a way that was both accessible and inspiring. Students were captivated throughout, demonstrating curiosity, enthusiasm and a real passion for learning. It was a fantastic opportunity to spark interest in STEM and help our young people see the exciting possibilities these subjects can offer in a high school setting.”