A NEW initiative has been rolled out across the region to encourage primary and secondary school children to consider a future career in engineering.

Manufacturers’ organisation EEF has launched Primary Engineer to help address the shortage of engineers in the North East.

The project, which will see 30 of the region’s manufacturers sponsor a school to host a Primary Engineer course, aims to encourage pupils to consider science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers.

The launch, which took place at EEF’s Gateshead office, marked the start of the partnership between the organisation’s members. It was attended by Labour MP for Newcastle, Chi Onwurah, who is an engineer herself. She said: “It was at my primary school that I was first inspired by science and engineering, so I know how important it is that the next generation of engineers and scientists find their inspiration early on. Science and engineering are at the heart of how our economy and society are changing.”

Primary Engineer is a not-for-profit organisation that visits schools across the UK and delivers various courses in STEM subjects.

The courses help teachers to apply practical maths and science skills to modern design and technology projects, which they then take back to their classrooms to inspire young pupils to become the engineers of the future.

Schools are also invited to take part in local, regional and national challenges that celebrate young pupil’s achievements.

EEF is promoting the organisation among its members in the North East by encouraging them to sponsor a school for £500 so that more courses can be delivered and pupils can showcase their talents.