Primary and secondary school students around Devon have been taking part in an Exeter College initiative to boost IT in schools. College lecturers, Chris Temple-Murray and Ian Parkhouse have visited a variety of secondary and primary schools in an attempt to boost interest in the subject and to increase awareness in IT as a career in the long term. The project stemmed from a change in the curriculum where IT was either going to be embedded (primary schools) or changed to Computing (secondary schools). Students have benefitted from hands on sessions including seeing how a 3D printer works.

Business and IT lecturer, Chris Temple-Murray said: “The aim of the project is to provide a key link with local schools, with the goal of boosting IT skills among students aged between ten and sixteen. The project has visited eight schools since September, resulting in a total of 650+ students benefiting. The project is funded by Exeter College as part of the LEAD programme and is already making a name for itself around Devon.”

After a recent visit to Bickleigh-on-Exe, Head of School, Mr Stephen Bosley, said he was delighted by the excitement and buzz that the project produced. “This opportunity has enabled pupils to see how their work in class can be used to support business projects within industry, I am sure that opportunities like this will enable our children to develop a passion and a lasting interest in engineering and IT for years to come.”

If you would like to get involved in this project then please contact the Business and IT faculty on 01392 400500.