YOUNGSTERS were given a taste of what it is like to be a forensic scientist or an engineer.

The Year 8 pupils from schools in and around Swindon joined in workshops run by experts from the science, technology, engineering and mathematics world at the annual STEM day at New College.

Jonny Furze from Bristol Chemlabs delivered a presentation on gases in the air which involved experiments to captivate the students.

He said: “Science engages you with the world.

"Ongoing research is essential to discover new and ever-growing technologies.

“Without the STEM subjects, we wouldn’t understand why things happen.

“STEM day is important for engaging students at a younger age when they are thinking about their GCSE options and career paths for the future.”

The day brought local school pupils and external organisations together with talks, events and demonstrations.

There was also an opportunity for the pupils to get hands on with the different subjects.

Guest organisations this taking part year included Cranfield Defence Academy, which ran three workshops studying creepy crawlies and maggot art, how to create slime and gas sensors.

The University of Gloucestershire ran a topical session on the internet and cyber security, while Bournemouth University focused on product design and engineering.

STEM subjects at New College are popular and students can take A levels in physics, biology, chemistry, maths, design technology, electronics and computer science.

They also have the option to study vocational and applied courses in ICT, engineering and science.

The college said research had shown students who took those subjects found it easier to get jobs when they finished their education and had a higher earning potential than others.

Many STEM students completed an extended project qualification which involved researching a topic of interest.

Faculty manager Amanda Spanswick said:“We’ve been running our STEM day for several years now and are absolutely delighted with the support we receive from both our visitors and local schools in sending their pupils.

“STEM subjects are just so key for the UK’s future economic growth and to be able to engage young people with interactive demonstrations and projects is fantastic.”