Our Year 5 and 6 pupils had the exciting opportunity to take part in a dynamic workshop hosted by BP, in conjunction with Girls in Data, focusing on the world of data and wind energy. The workshop was designed to inspire young girls and encourage them to explore the potential of working with data, an area often perceived as challenging, while also learning about sustainable energy solutions.
One of the most engaging highlights of the session was the 360-degree virtual tour of a windfarm. This immersive experience allowed the girls to see firsthand the technology behind wind turbines and how wind energy is harnessed to generate power. The virtual tour sparked lots of curiosity, with off shore wind turbines stretching as far as the eye could see!
The workshop included an interactive activity where the students worked in teams to choose the most suitable location for a windfarm. The girls had to consider several factors such as wind barriers, local wildlife, proximity to schools, and the environmental impact of their decisions. This hands-on activity helped them understand the complex decision-making process involved in setting up a wind farm, showcasing how data and analysis play crucial roles in real-world problem-solving. Finally, the girls were set the challenge of choosing a site for a wind turbine within our own grounds at Thornton! While several locations were considered, the overall consensus among the students was clear: as a community, we must focus on improving our renewable energy efforts. Keep an eye out for solar panels possibly making their way onto the next School Council agenda!
Throughout the session, BP experts also took the time to dispel common myths about working with data, such as the idea that you need to be exceptionally good at maths. The message was clear: working with data is about problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking, rather than just numbers and equations. This was an empowering takeaway for the girls, helping to break down barriers and making data-related careers feel more accessible and exciting. The girls collaborated enthusiastically in their groups, using their teamwork and creative thinking to evaluate potential windfarm sites. The discussions were rich with ideas, with students weighing the pros and cons of various locations and considering how each site could impact the community and the environment.
The workshop not only gave the pupils a deeper understanding of the energy sector but also encouraged them to consider future careers in STEM fields, particularly in data, engineering, and sustainability. The session proved to be an excellent opportunity to engage the girls in a forward-thinking field and to show them the many paths available to them in the world of data and renewable energy.
We would like to extend our thanks to BP for organising such a fantastic and informative workshop. It was an inspiring experience for our Year 5 and 6 girls, and we hope to see many of them pursuing careers that combine innovation, data, and sustainability in the future!
