"We have many excellent, national programmes in place focussed on hiring apprentices and supporting young adults through the apprenticeship process and that has a huge importance. However, I believe we should be even more forward thinking. We need to introduce children to science and technology and ultimately inspire them and hold their interest and their curiosity so that, when they become young adults they know that science and technology is a real career opportunity for them. Something they want to do and something that is relevant to them. The PIE Project is having a real impact on our children in the region. By connecting businesses to Primary Schools, I believe the project is creating real future opportunities for boys and girls to have the desire and the confidence to choose a science or technology career." Mark Jackson, North East entrepreneur and CEO of Arnia. He is passionate about promoting science and technology within the primary school curriculum. (Arnia is leading an initiative that is using the data collected by its bee monitoring equipment to bring to life science, technology and maths for Key Stage 1 and 2 school children. Email mark@arnia.co.uk for more information.)
“North East England is an area with enormous opportunity, but this can only be realised if we invest in our future talent. The children in our schools today can be the stars of our businesses in a few years’ time if we back them to fulfil their potential.”
Ross Smith, Director of Policy North East Chamber”The BIG PIE Challenge is a fantastic initiative which links together employers and young people in the North East. Inspiring the next generation of our community to challenge themselves and develop innovative thinking is an important part of improving the future aspirations of our region and County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service are proud to support the Challenge.”
“The Newcastle City Council Education Division fully supports The Big PIE Challenge 2017 and we would encourage as many of our schools to become involved as possible. This is a great opportunity for the young people of the city to gain an introduction to the world of work through an exciting project that will develop their understanding of enterprise, entrepreneurship and business. Most importantly, it will help to foster a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics in every young person taking part that will help them throughout their adult life.”
“What a great initiative making a positive impact on our future generations. I am proud to support the local schools that are taking part.”
