Mathematics, Computing and Engineering academics offer Ri Masterclasses to local STEM pupils at London Met
Date: 18 March 2019
For the last seven years, London Metropolitan University has been working in partnership with the Royal Institution (Ri) to hold a series of interactive workshops on mathematics, computing and engineering for engaged pupils both in the local area and outside of London.
The Ri Masterclasses go beyond the school curriculum to make subjects involving science and technology as interactive and engaging as possible for secondary school students, inspiring the next generation.
These activities are testament to the University’s commitment in supporting young people to enhance their skills in STEM subjects, a field growing rapidly in importance to the global economy and society.
There are over 50 schools and colleges whose students who participate in the Ri Masterclasses, such as:
- St Gregory's Catholic Science College
- London Academy
- Highgate School
- Clapton Girls’ Academy
- Watford grammar school for boys
- Harris Girls’ Academy East Dulwich
- City of London School for Boys
- The Ursuline Academy Ilford
Apolline, a Year 9 student from Sacred Heart of Mary Girls’ School, took part in the Engineering Masterclass series. She said: ‘The Masterclasses, for me, are an opportunity to develop my understanding of engineering and to interact with new people. I've found them really enjoyable - they are fun and you can explore your creativity.’
Three series of six unique extra-curricular sessions run between January and March every Saturday, with eighteen half-day sessions delivered during this period. Professional scientists, engineers and mathematicians, including nine tutors and lecturers from London Met, lead the sessions. They volunteer to teach the worskhops, communicating complex concepts to a younger audience in a fun and creative way.
Dr Saeed Reza Taghizadeh, a Principal Lecturer in Mathematics, Electronics and Robotic Engineering at London Met, is one of the volunteering professionals to lead the sessions. In December 2018, Dr Taghizadeh was awarded ‘Inspirational Masterclass Speaker’ at the Royal Institution Masterclass awards in Mayfair, London.
Renzo Veschini of the Widening Participation Team, who organises these series at Holloway Campus, said: “I always look forward to The Royal Institution Masterclass Series. They are truly beneficial for the kids who attend them, and I have found that our amazing academics really enjoy delivering their sessions too. It is also a good opportunity for our academics who take part to make good connections with The Royal Institution, such as Dr Saeed Reza Taghizadeh has done.”
Royal Institution Masterclass Programme Manager Rachel Dorris said; “We’re incredibly proud to be working once again with London Met on our Mathematics, Engineering and Computer Science Masterclass Programme.
“The enthusiasm of the speakers leading the sessions - both the London Met lecturers and the industry experts - makes such an amazing addition to the experience gained by the students attending the sessions. I know the university team always works hard to make the students feel welcome and to inspire them in continuing their studies of these subjects to a high level.”
