Chesterfield students join local manufacturers to celebrate National Manufacturing Day
Over 70 students from six local schools worked leading Chesterfield businesses to gain a unique insight into the world of manufacturing, as part of the borough’s Made in Chesterfield initiative.
Made in Chesterfield brings together manufacturers, education providers and partners to celebrate the strength, innovation and growth of the local manufacturing sector while inspiring the next generation of talent.
Coordinated by Destination Chesterfield and delivered in partnership with headline partner Chesterfield College, alongside a network of employers, education providers and public sector partners, the campaign highlights the borough as a leading location for manufacturing, while creating meaningful links between businesses and future employees. Delivery partners include Barrow Hill Roundhouse, CBE+, Chesterfield Borough Council, North East Derbyshire District Council, Tupton Hall School, United Cast Bar, Weightron Bilanciai and the Work-wise Foundation.
Students from Parkside Community School, Brookfield Community School, Whittington Green School, Tupton Hall School, The Bolsover School and Aston Academy visited United Cast Bar, Brampton Brewery, Penny Engineering, Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) Ltd, NIBE Energy Systems Limited and Weightron Bilanciai Ltd.
The National Manufacturing Day event involved students visiting local manufacturers, undertaking factory tours and completing an employer-led Innovation Challenge in the morning, allowing students to work directly with local businesses on real-world projects to develop practical skills and gain valuable insight into modern manufacturing.
In the afternoon, students presented their ideas for the Innovation Challenge at the new DRIIVe (Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle) training and innovation centre located next to the Barrow Hill Roundhouse, alongside other schools and participating business.
Students from Chesterfield College conducted the judging and Labour MP for Chesterfield, Toby Perkins MP presented the students with a certificate and prize. The event gave students a unique insight into a range of manufacturing processes, while also developing their understanding of key areas including engineering, design and project management.
Students also had a tour of the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse, which is the last surviving railway roundhouse in the UK with an operational turntable and a tour of the new DRIIVe (Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle) innovation centre.
Andrew Kelly, Headteacher at Parkside Community School, added: "National Manufacturing Day provides a fantastic opportunity for our students to see first-hand the exciting career pathways available within the manufacturing sector. Experiences like this play an important role in our careers education programme, helping students make meaningful links between their learning in school and future employment opportunities.
"Our students return inspired by what they have seen and learned, particularly the innovation, technology, and teamwork involved in modern manufacturing. We are grateful to the local businesses and partners who give their time to showcase the opportunities available across Chesterfield and the wider region.
“As a school, we are committed to raising aspirations and helping young people make informed choices about their future. Events such as this help broaden horizons and give students valuable insight into the opportunities available within our local economy."