The Royal Air Force Inspires Young Minds - With Science...

The Royal Air Force is hoping to encourage a new generation of engineers- with a new programme called RAF 100 STEM.

The initiative teaches young people about how science, technology, engineering and maths have been used by the RAF over the years.

At RAF Cosford Museum young people have been encouraged to experiment with science, learning about technology that helps today's air force.

The hope is that the STEM event will help to encourage young people to develop a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths.

Behind it is huge support from the Royal Air Force, who celebrate their 100th anniversary in 2018. Air Vice Marshall Sue Gray spoke about the importance of the initiative:

“We’re desperately short of engineers - and we’re missing out on the talent - especially of the female gender.

“Women can be engineers, but they don’t really have the role models.

“We’re trying to say if you’re interested in Science, Technology or Mathematics then you’re probably an engineer at heart”.

For the RAF's centenary, the service is focusing on three themes - commemoration, celebration and inspiration.

This programme of STEM events will be complemented by teaching materials for schools, inspiring young people to get involved with engineering. Dillon from Muxton Primary School was certainly enthusiastic about the project:

“It’s better than just English and Maths - you get to actually do something, like experiments and stuff”.

Events like this will be run across the UK over the next year, but the RAF is also promising a much longer commitment, encouraging the next generation of young engineers, who could grow up to develop the next generation of aircraft.