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Inspiring scientists and engineers of the future

Posted onPosted on 24th Feb

Huthwaite-based construction firm nmcn has launched a video for children aimed at inspiring them to look at a possible career in science or engineering.

The video shows how to conduct a water cycle experiment using the humble ‘sandwich bag’.


It has been created to educate and inspire young people to consider a career in STEM — Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.


The experiment, created in house by nmcn’s team, is designed for Key Stage 1 and 2 students to show a water cycle, providing an insight into working in the industry.


The video is part of an experiment pack that can be carried out at home as well as in schools.


It was trialled during lockdown at one of nmcn’s partner schools, St Mary Magdalene C of E in Sutton. Pupils in Year 4 did the experiment together, whether learning at home or attending school.

Headteacher Sam Robinson said: “It was great that the children could do the experiment at the same time no matter where they were.


“The experiment was well thought through as we could give children attending school and those at home the same experience. They all really enjoyed doing the experiment and asked lots of questions afterwards. It was an engaging and exciting way to get them interested in the water cycle.”


Charlotte Crake, customer and community engagement manager at nmcn, said: “The packs deliver key learnings that are part of the national curriculum.

“We want to make learning about this fun and exciting, which in turn will make young people more engaged with the topic.


“The box contains everything to conduct the experiment, so schools and parents don’t need to use any of their valuable resources for it.”


The water cycle pack is part of nmcn’s wider campaign, under the community strand of the company’s Positive Impact Plan, which strives to invest in its local community to create a lasting legacy and inspire young people around STEM careers.


Charlotte added: “Our aim is to get more young people interested in a STEM career as there is a real skills gap. We want to show them that a career in STEM can be exciting and highly rewarding.

“The water cycle process on our video is the same process as on site in a real water processing facility, but scaled down into a bag. It provides a real insight into what working in the industry is like.


“In the future, our plan is for our members of staff to go into schools to deliver the experiment so the children can ask them questions about a career in STEM.”

Following the launch of the water cycle experiment, nmcn plans to develop more interactive experiments in different topic areas.


To watch the video or download the packs visit https://nmcn.com/watercycle and to request the experiment to be delivered in your school, contact [email protected]