Location: Scarborough Spa
Dates: 10th–12th October 2023
For its 14th year, Scarborough Science & Engineering Week (SSEW) brought science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) to life, offering young people and their families an exciting glimpse into STEM careers. Organized by the Scarborough Business Ambassadors (SBA) and NYBEP, this free three-day event celebrated a significant milestone by welcoming its 40,000th student, Brody from Lady Lumley’s School.
SSEW’s mission is to ignite students’ passion for STEM careers and provide them with hands-on experiences that highlight the opportunities in the field. Through engaging exhibits, workshops, and real-world industry insights, students learned how STEM careers shape the world around them and how they might fit into that future.
Event Impact
- 20 secondary schools, SEND specialist providers, colleges, and home educators attended, with 1,617 students participating.
- 22 primary schools took part on Primary Day, with 1,154 students exploring STEM careers.
- 154 families joined the Open Evening to learn about future career opportunities.
In total, 2,925 young people and their families attended SSEW 2023.
Key Feedback from Students Post-event surveys revealed the impact the event had on students’ perceptions of STEM careers:
- 85% of students said the event improved their knowledge of STEM careers.
- 77% learned about careers beyond those familiar to their families or carers.
- 92% stated they would now think about how jobs and careers may change in the future.
- 70% felt they had made contact with people who could help them with their career choices.
- 93% would recommend the event to their friends.
One student even exclaimed, “This is the best day of my life!”
Teacher Feedback The event also received glowing feedback from educators:
- 100% of teachers rated the event and its exhibition stands as “good” or “excellent.”
- 86% said the event helped inform students about potential STEM employers and career pathways.
- 72% stated it provided better links between their schools and employers.
One teacher remarked, “It has generated a lot of discussion among our pupils. For some vulnerable learners, attending an event like this was a big challenge, and they were proud to have managed it.”
Another educator shared, “Scarborough Engineering Week is exciting and interactive, helping to inspire young people with hands-on activities that ignite their interest in STEM careers.”
Inclusive Opportunities This year’s event ensured accessibility for all, offering dedicated ‘quiet sessions’ for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). These sessions provided a comfortable and supportive environment for every attendee to engage with the exhibits.
Employer Presence A total of 25 organizations exhibited, with 127 staff from various sectors. Notable exhibitors included Anglo American, the Royal Navy, British Army, and York & Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHSFT. New exhibitors like Made Smarter, Smailes Goldie Group, and Lab Plant UK also added to the lineup, showcasing cutting-edge industry innovations.
Looking Ahead Scarborough Science & Engineering Week continues to grow each year, both in scale and impact. As students, educators, and businesses look forward to next year’s event, NYBEP remains committed to sparking curiosity and driving enthusiasm for STEM careers.
Interested in getting involved in 2024? Contact NYBEP to learn more about how your organization can inspire the next generation of STEM professionals.
