Malvern Instruments, a leading provider of scientific instruments for materials characterization, kicked off a scientific discovery programme with a presentation to Malvern St James Girls’ School in Worcestershire to encourage students into a career in science or engineering

The House of Lords Science and Technology Committee back in July 2012 called for immediate action to be taken to ensure that enough young people study Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects at school, in further education and postgraduate level. In order for UK technology companies to remain competitive and to continue to bring innovative R&D products to the market place, the next generation of students need to be inspired and be educated within STEM subjects to maintain current levels of economic growth in this sector in the future.

During the presentation, Wendy Milne-Bennett, Divisional HR Manager and Rowena Innocent, Engineering Director of Malvern Instruments launched the ‘Malvern Instruments Science Award’ for a student who presents an excellent piece of extra-curricular project work. Winners will receive their names on the Malvern Instruments Cup, receive a science related prize and attend the Company’s chocolate tour.

The award will be given in recognition of excellent project work completed across a period of 4 to 6 weeks as part of the Malvern St James Girls’ School extra-curricular programme. The successful girls, shortlisted by the school, will have to present their project work to a panel of judges at the Malvern Instruments head-quarters. In addition, Malvern Instruments is also offering A-Level students applying for a science or engineering degree the opportunity to win a Company Sponsorship.

“We‘re keen to introduce as many young people as possible to the opportunities in not only science and engineering but to Malvern Instruments,” said Wendy Milne-Bennett. “Our new scheme complements our established work with apprenticeships and student placements.” Rowena Innocent added, “With almost 30% of our technical roles filled by women we have some fantastic role models for students. Malvern St James is really motivated to take advantage of this opportunity and we are all excited about what this partnership could achieve.”

Mrs Patricia Woodhouse, Headmistress of Malvern St James Girls' School said: “I am thrilled to announce our partnership with Malvern Instruments and foundation of the sponsorship package and Science Award programme, which offers pupils the opportunity to extend their learning and engage in real life experience with this prestigious global company.

“At Malvern St James we are passionate about encouraging pupils to actively engage in SET subjects and we have wealth of budding bright young scientists and engineers in the School. Our links with Malvern Instruments will further enhance our vibrant science and technology curriculum and the high level of women in senior management positions at Malvern Instruments will be inspirational role models for our girls.”

Among the many other activities, Malvern Instruments will participate in the School’s National Engineering and Science Week and its Careers Fair, and will provide students with the opportunity of being mentored by scientists and engineers from the Company.

For more about Malvern Instruments visit www.malvern.com