School visits to London’s Science Museum will soon include Engineers, a large gallery which aims to inspire students with future careers, while also challenging the common misconceptions of what engineers do and why they’re important.
It’s said that human stories will be at the heart of the space, with illustrated, characterful anecdotes from more than 60 engineers working in a broad range of industries, such as farming, fashion, robotics and medicine.
These stories all sit within four distinct sections of the gallery: Bodies, Lives, Connections and Creating.
Bodies will look at how controlled drug delivery and surgical robots place people and their bodies at the heart of precision engineering practice.
In Lives, LED lighting and digital imaging sensors illustrate how engineers work sustainably, building enduring businesses, with a minimised ecological footprint.
In Connections, GPS, internet and web technologies represent engineering as a connected practice, with diverse teams creating new global information and communication systems.
The final section, Creating, looks at how engineers create products, from software to suspension bridges. Their creative ways of thinking are central to developing amazing innovations which can change the world.
Learning programme for Key Stage 3 and above
An accompanying learning programme for Key Stage 3 and above is currently in the works, with full details set to be released when the gallery opens on 23rd June 2023.
Situated on Level 1, the Engineers gallery will be adjacent to Technicians: The David Sainsbury Gallery, which opened in November 2022. These complementary galleries are said to showcase a variety of personal stories and innovations that impact our everyday life.
The contemporary design of the new gallery has been dexcribed as ‘fresh’ and it will use carefully selected sustainable building materials, reflecting the role of engineers in building a sustainable future.
Dr Hayaatun Sillem CBE, CEO of the QEPrize and of the Royal Academy of Engineering, said: “2023 marks the first decade of the QEPrize and its role in championing bold, ground-breaking engineering innovation that is of global benefit to humanity.
“Working with our global QEPrize Ambassador Network of early career engineers, some of whom are featured in this exhibition, we aim to inspire young people from all backgrounds, all around the world, to consider a future career in engineering.”
Inspiring new generations of engineers
Research by Engineering UK shows young people’s knowledge of engineering is low, and what they do know is often influenced by stereotypes and misinformation.
By connecting school groups with people just like themselves who have created and pursued innovation, the gallery will aim to provide a much-needed ‘way in’ to a subject many feel disconnected from, and open people’s eyes to the possibilities available.
For more information, go to www.sciencemuseum.org.uk.
