Technology Award 2015: call for entries
23/02/2015
Young people from throughout the area being encouraged to enter the North Devon Manufacturers Association (NDMA) Technology Award 2015.
Part of the wider NDMA Awards evening, which is now in its 18th year, this technology category aims to showcase the wide range of talent among young people in the area.
Following last years’ visit from Vince Cable the NDMA is keen to further heighten the profile of this important sector to the local economy by encouraging even more young people aged 13 – 19 to enter the Association’s 2015 Technology Award.
It is aimed not only at students studying Design & Technology subjects at GCSE or A Level or the equivalent, but also any young person who has an interest in product design and manufacturing. Products may be made from resistant materials like wood or plastic, or include electronics, graphics or textiles.
The emphasis this year is on innovation. To enter, applicants or their teachers simply submit four A3 colour photocopies that show the specification, development ideas, photographs of the product and how it was evaluated. There are two age categories, 13-16 and 16-19.
The shortlisted entries will be invited to attend the prestigious NDMA Awards Ceremony on Thursday 21st May.
Two £100 prizes are up for grabs and the winners will also receive an award designed by Dartington Crystal.
An exhibition on the same evening will showcase some of the best competition entries to local employers, creating an opportunity to spot local talent early on. The aim of the Technology Award is to raise the profile of manufacturing and highlight the local career opportunities within this sector.
Sarah Grigg, Employment and Skills Manager at North Devon+ said: “The Government has long identified Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) skills as a priority. STEM subjects are integral to the UK’s success and yet there is a shortage of these skills in the UK, with many Devon employers having to recruit technical roles from further afield as a result.”
“It’s vital that we actively encourage interest in these subjects among young people, as we will need their skills to be able to meet the future needs of our local employers. For talented youngsters, the job opportunities will be exciting and varied and we need to attract and keep some of our brightest stars within the area. This Technology Award helps us to get this message out there.”
Phil Scotcher, Chair of the North Devon Manufacturers Association continues: “The NDMA Technology Award is a way for schools to showcase students work and build links with local employers. It allows young people to view manufacturing in a creative light, whilst developing problem solving skills through product design. Talent and innovation are the lifeblood of our industry. It’s essential that we engage youngsters and highlight the career opportunities that are available.”
To enter, download a Technology Awards Entry Form at www.ndemploymentandskills.co.uk The form and the A3 photocopies need to be submitted to Petroc Reception, Sticklepath Hill, Barnstaple. The deadline is 4pm on Monday 11th May 2015.
Notes to Editors
For more information regarding this press release contact: Emma Parker Reynolds at Coast on 07944 360631 or the Coast main office on 01579 352600.
About North Devon+
North Devon+ is the chief economic delivery agency for North Devon and Torridge. We aim to deliver positive change, creating a more productive economy and more prosperous communities. Our role is to ensure our area thrives as a place in which to live, learn, work and visit. Our primary focus is on regeneration, tourism and business development. We work with Torridge District Council, North Devon Council, Devon County Council and the private sector to deliver projects and initiatives that encourage and support business growth, improve quality of life, and address social and economic inequalities. North Devon+ is a member of the National Enterprise Network. To find out more visit www.northdevonplus.co.uk
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