ABP SOUTHAMPTON was joined Red Funnel, Burgess Marine and other major organisations to support the Engineering Development Trust’s (EDT) Go4SET event for Year 8 and 9 students from the area.

Students from across the region attended to complete the final element of weeks’ worth of project work at the CEMAST centre.

The weeks of research, planning and management included support from business mentors that encouraged students to learn more about the subjects of Science Technology , Engineering and Maths (STEM).

The day comprised of presentations, model and display questioning, feedback, a tour of CEMAST and an awards celebration event.

Commercial manager Rebekah Keeler was an assessor at the event and said: "STEM subjects are key to future careers, especially in places such as the Port of Southampton.

"It was great to work with the talent of tomorrow as part of such a positive event."

Research has shown that the exposure of younger age groups to STEM related employers, encourages more students to choose post-16 courses in these subject areas, eventually leading to the study of STEM degrees at university.

Companies including Qinetiq, Red Funnel, Ericsson, Mark Foot and Clarcor came along to the event to share their knowledge and expertise with pupils who were very keen to get involved.

The business volunteers acted as mentors for the students who created projects in groups. The projects were titled "My School is an Island", "Stations of the Future", "My Eco Classroom" and "Our Electronics Environment", and all involved use of Science, Engineering or Technology.

The purpose of the event was to inspire and engage young people in the STEM industries, to enrich their learning and broaden awareness of the subjects, whilst also having great fun and taking part in live activities!