The Big Bang Fair - the UK’s largest celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) for young people - is set to return this summer. The annual event, which is run by EngineeringUK, is designed to ignite a passion for STEM and showcase the career possibilities in these sectors. Taking place from 19-21 June at the Birmingham NEC, it is set to welcome students aged 10 to 13 from around the UK. Schools and home educators can now register for free tickets to attend here.

A wide range of employers will come together at The Big Bang Fair to bring engineering and technology careers to life – from aerospace, rail and the automotive sectors to energy, healthcare and much more. This gives young people the opportunity to meet STEM professionals, as well as join exciting live shows and inspiring career panels. There will also be plenty of hands-on activities for visitors to experience, including the chance to test their driving skills by putting powerful robots through a series of challenges, piloting a submarine, discovering how different materials are used in sports and space exploration and much more.

Given the acute skills shortage and ambitions to be ‘net zero’ by 2050, the UK urgently needs more young people to progress into engineering and technology. EngineeringUK says that STEM engagement activities such as this are vital for developing their awareness and interest in these careers — helping the sector to secure a skilled and diverse future workforce.

Igniting a passion
Phillip McShane, associate director of The Big Bang programme at EngineeringUK, said: “We are on a mission to drive change so that more young people choose engineering and technology careers. We know that taking part in STEM outreach activities from an early age plays a vital role in changing the perceptions and attitudes students feel towards careers in the sector. The Big Bang Fair is a perfect opportunity for employers and professional engineering institutions to help ignite a passion for STEM and inspire young people from all backgrounds to pursue careers in their sectors.”

Almost 16,000 young people attended The Big Bang Fair last year, along with 2,300 teachers. Also taking place at the event, will be the awards ceremony for the popular Big Bang UK Young Scientists and Engineers Competition. Winners will be announced, including the crowning of the prestigious Big Bang UK Young Engineer, UK Young Scientist and UK Young Technologist of the Year, supported by Siemens. The competition, which is free to enter, is open to young people in the UK aged 11 to 18 in State-funded education, who are home educated or who enter as part of a community group. There is still time for young people to get involved – entries will close on the 27 March.

With tickets for The Big Bang Fair always booking up quickly — schools are advised to book their free tickets early, to avoid disappointment. To find out more about exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities for The Big Bang Fair 2024 and The Big Bang Competition – email .