Young people are invited to take part in an international day celebrating engineering when they join in a free mini film festival.
As part of International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) on 23rd June, the Rochester Bridge Trust is offering schools and community groups in Kent a free copy of the film Hidden Figures, supported by a selection of learning materials, plus some money to buy refreshments.
INWED’s theme for 2021 is heroes and the chosen film highlights some previously unsung heroes of the space race.
Trust Education Officer Claire Saunders explained: “INWED is an important day in the engineering calendar, highlighting the achievements of female engineers as role models for girls. However, just as engineering isn’t only for boys, this day isn’t just for girls. It’s about introducing all children to the potential of engineering – and a good way to do that is to inspire them with some real-life heroes.
“Ordinarily we would hold a free festival at a cinema, inviting local groups to join us to watch a film demonstrating the real-world application of engineering. The pandemic means it’s not possible for us to safely invite large groups of children to come to us, so instead we’re offering to send the film to them.”
The Trust is offering to supply interested groups with the film on DVD, the book that inspired it, plus £50 to support the provision of suitable refreshments to keep young viewers comfortable during the film. The charity has also pulled together a selection of related educational activities – these are available free of charge online, irrespective of whether groups join in the film festival.
Groups wishing to take part in the free mini film festival should email education@rbt.org.uk – they can also download the free activities here.