The Big Bang Fair East Midlands, part of the Engineering UK national campaign to encourage young people into careers in STEM, will increase participation from 2,000 to 3,000 school-children as a result of the move to a new home in Derby next year.

The event — set for 27 June at Pride Park — aims to be bigger and better than ever before, with Engineering UK reporting that 203,000 roles requiring engineering skills need to be filled annually through to 2024.

As well as engaging hands-on activities, have-a-go workshops and inspirational speakers, Big Bang Fair East Midlands
will also feature ‘sector zones’ throughout the exhibition area for young people to explore — all aimed at filling the STEM skills gap.

Schools can also take part in the Big Bang Competition to find the regional Young Engineer and Young Scientist of the Year.

STEM employers and academic institutions interested in showcasing STEM careers should contact bigbang@bydesign- group.co.uk.

Visitor registration for schools and home educators is now open a the Web site (nearme.thebigbangfair.co.uk view/?eve_id=1947).