Design & Technology Association Excellence Award
Whitchurch High School's Faculty Leader of Technology, Mr. Mike Williams, has recently been honoured with the prestigious Design & Technology Association Excellence Award, sponsored by CO2 Laser Repair Service for his Outstanding Industry Engagement. This recognition celebrates Mr. Williams' remarkable efforts in seamlessly integrating industry engagement into his teaching practices, further exemplified through his successful collaboration with Aston Martin.
The partnership between Mr. Williams and Aston Martin first took root in the school's innovative event, known as 'The Diva Derby.' This unique initiative was designed to foster an interest in STEM subjects among young girls. In this exciting competition, Year 9 students were tasked with the challenge of designing, creating, and racing radio-controlled cars, a task that combined engineering and creativity. The climax of 'The Diva Derby' was a tour of Aston Martin's Gaydon headquarters, where the victorious students got an up-close look at the cutting-edge technology and innovation that drives the renowned car manufacturer.
Aston Martin was so inspired by the success of 'The Diva Derby' that they decided to emulate the concept within their apprenticeship scheme. The impact of Mr. Williams' partnership with the automotive giant extended far beyond the school walls, as Aston Martin recognised the value of promoting STEM education and inspiring the next generation of engineers.
Mr. Mike Williams has been instrumental in empowering students and enriching the engineering industry through his dedication to bridging the gap between education and real-world applications. By fostering a culture of industry engagement, he has not only encouraged students to explore their passion for technology but has also inspired them to pursue careers in STEM fields.
This accolade highlights the importance of educators like Mr. Williams who go above and beyond to instil a love for STEM education and create opportunities for students to engage with industry leaders. It serves as a testament to the positive impact of such collaborations and the potential they hold in shaping the future of young minds in pursuit of careers in technology and engineering. Whitchurch High School and Mr. Mike Williams have indeed set a remarkable example, demonstrating that when education and industry come together, great things can be achieved.
