Harlow-based Gratnells Engineering“ recently welcomed 20 students from BMAT STEM Academy — its local university technical college — to its factory for a day of activities and a look at STEM careers “.

As the leading name in school storage in over 68 countries world-wide (and the producer of the iconic Gratnells tray), the company uses technologies that include high-volume laser cutting, powder coating and bespoke metal solutions to serve a wide range of customers.

It has previously supported campaigns such as the F1 in Schools programme and the Year of Engineering; most recently, it has developed relationships with local educational institutions, including BMAT STEM Academy.

It has become a Gold Level sponsor to the college this year, which will see it provide support for students to further their understanding of manufacturing and give them the chance to play a role in product development.

As part of this initiative, Gratnells gave the visiting students presentations about the company history and a tour of the facility.

They were introduced to the different roles and responsibilities found in a typical manufacturing environment and were asked to evaluate a real prototype product.

Every student completed a feedback form at the end of the day, and these almost unanimously said that the tour of the impressive Gratnells facility was the best part of the day.

Dave Ramsey, BMAT STEM assistant head teacher, said: “The students had a brilliant experience, and a number of them have said that they want to work for Gratnells in the future.

“The students can’t wait to start using some of the ideas in lessons and in their project work.”