Punk rock, sea life and a robot orchestra

PUPILS from seven local schools were treated to a mix of punk rock, sea life and a robot orchestra as EDF Energy’s West Burton, CCGT and Cottam power stations teamed up with Cheltenham Science Festival.

The annual science shows, this year held at Gainsborough’s Trinity Arts Centre, saw two acclaimed performers Russell Arnott and Professor Danielle George entertaining more than 400 pupils.

Gaz Toyne, a Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) Ambassador and Operations Technician for West Burton B CCGT said: “We were very entertained at the LabLive show and were thrilled to present the show to a full house both morning and afternoon, with 400 children in attendance.

“The children were clearly enthralled with both ‘Robot Orchestra’ and ‘Sea Soup’. Our hope is that they left the show with a little more ambition for careers in STEM subjects having been inspired by our expert presenters.”

Year 8 and 9 pupils from Huntcliff School, Axholme Academy, Retford Oaks, Wellow House, The Orchard School, Rossington All Saints,  Queen Elizabeth High School were all invited to theatre to join in LabLive.

Engineer Danielle George brought her ‘robot orchestra’ and explored the worlds of robotics, coding and sound. Using these futuristic recycled robots she demonstrated how engineering and computing have fused to take control of technology.

Marine microbiologist Russell Arnott talked about Sea Soup as he gave a guided tour around the thousands of tiny creatures in the oceans. This microscopic menagerie of mini-beasts help to provide the food we eat and the air we breathe.

Bob Fenton, head of communications at EDF Energy said: “One of our missions at EDF Energy is to inspire the next generation to study STEM subjects.

“We know teachers value the LabLive sessions as they give their pupils the opportunity to see the fun side of STEM outside of the classroom. We are proud to support Cheltenham Science Festival in this excellent project.”