Renewable energy firm Drax has linked up with Groundwork Yorkshire to run programmes aimed at inspiring young people to engage with nature and science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

Their ‘Go Wild’ programmes are aimed at seven to 11 year olds aimed to “learn new skills, make friends and build confidence through fun and educational activities”.

The programmes took place throughout the summer involving 100 young people in in Goole’s West Park and Selby’s Community Centre playing fields, with an additional nature-focused day hosted at Drax’s Skylark Centre.

Through the link up Drax delivered interactive STEM sessions including bottle rocket launches and bridge building.

This is the fourth year the firm and charity have linked up to run the nature sessions, with an added focus on STEM subjects this year.

“Drax’s community team engaged fully with the children, sparking their interest in STEM with rocket making and bridge building,” said Groundwork Yorkshire programme manager Amanda Scrimgeour.

“The support from Drax made a huge difference to the young people’s summer, and we’re incredibly grateful for their involvement.”

Drax UK community manager Nick Robinson added: “We’re proud to support initiatives like ‘Go Wild’ that give young people in our local communities the chance to learn, explore and have fun during the summer holidays.

“It’s fantastic to see their enthusiasm for STEM activities like rocket building – experiences like these can spark an interest that stays with them for life.

“Partnering with Groundwork Yorkshire allows us to make a real difference to children’s confidence, wellbeing and aspirations.”

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