Jon Trickett

Local MP Jon Trickett visited Minsthorpe Community College and Hemsworth Arts and Community College pupils at an event held at Wakefield College’s Whitwood Campus last Friday.  

The pupils were taking part in the AimHigher scheme. For a week starting on November 10^th, year 9 pupils from around the Wakefield area attended the Starchaser event which gave them an opportunity to explore rocket design and find out about the scientific theory behind rocket flight. It is hoped that the events will inspire a new generation of engineers, scientists and maybe even astronauts.

The scheme is designed to encourage young people into Higher Education. AimHigher have invited 180 students who have the potential to succeed in higher education but who may lack the confidence to apply.

Activities on the days included designing and making rockets and launching them to see if they work.

Jon said:

‘This has been a great event, seeing young people really get involved with science and engineering on a practical level – and enjoying it as well. I hope this scheme does encourage young people in the area to think about their future career paths and maybe university.’

‘The events have been fun and really involved but there is a serious point to the week as well. I am happy to see young people thinking about what they might want to do in future, whether that is further education or learning a trade or skill. Congratulations to everyone involved – it seems to have been a great success’