TO ENCOURAGE interest in science, technology, engineering and maths, Petersfield students met Olympic yachts man Sir Ben Ainslie as he prepares for the America’s Cup race series.
Sir Ainslie is heading the Land Rover BAR team which will attempt to win the seven race series, this year being held in Bermuda, starting on May 26.
The official Land Rover BAR charity, the 1851 Trust, together with Land Rover, and the Bermuda Tourism Authority, hosted pupils aged between 11 and 14, at a roadshow in Portsmouth.
The aim was to raise interest among students, including a group from The Petersfield School (TPS) in the STEM subjects science, technology,?engineering and maths.
TPS spokesman Jenny Warner said: “Students don’t know what careers are linked to STEM studies, but the day gave them a really good insight, it’s definitely opened their eyes. They were really interested and asking lots of questions."
The students took part in activities aiming to inspire a new generation of sailors, designers and engineers.
Year 8 pupil Patrick Loh said: “We got loads of information and completed STEM-based exercises.
“The best part was going out on a sailing boat where everyone had a go at sailing and bringing in the sails.
“We learned all about what the crew has to do to keep the boat going, how it is made of environmentally friendly materials, and how we must all be responsible about the environment and avoid polluting our seas.”
And Erin Voller, in Year 7, said: “We completed a game which showed how much plastic is polluting the seas compared to food available for the animals and fish. It was a great day.”
Principal Mark Marande said: “I am incredibly excited for the students who took part in this event.
“This is an example of the opportunities our students have to demonstrate leadership and resilience.”
Sir Ben Ainslie said: “When we set up the Trust, I was determined to use the excitement of Land Rover BAR’s challenge to win the America’s Cup to engage and inspire young people about the range of opportunities available to them.”