Daniel Zeichner MP Standing up for Cambridge
On Friday, Daniel Zeichner MP learnt all things machine-related, as he visited Cambridge Science Centre, an educational charity committed to addressing the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) skills gap and showcasing Cambridge science and innovation.
Throughout the summer period, the centre held a holiday programme with different events each day for five to 11-year-olds. At Friday’s session, Mr Zeichner learnt how machines are built, before attempting to construct his very own, using recycled materials.
He believes the centre’s award-winning approach can help inform UK-wide approaches to closing the STEM skills gap through widening access to under-represented groups. The UK’s STEM skills shortage is well-documented, costing employers £1.5billion a year in additional training costs, recruitment and temporary staffing, and while Cambridge represents one of Europe’s leading technology hubs, many communities have limited opportunities to participate in STEM subjects.
Daniel Zeichner, Member of Parliament for Cambridge, said: “Cambridge is one of Europe’s most significant centres for science-based research and enterprise and so empowering future generations to pursue STEM subjects is absolutely critical to maintaining the region’s – and nation’s – position at the forefront of scientific enquiry and academic excellence. Cambridge Science Centre do such great work in laying the foundations for science learning for our young people, and this is seen in the impact it has made on the over 300,000 children that have been through its doors.”