Children of Babcock employees were recently given the opportunity to visit Devonport Dockyard, during the annual Bring Your Child to Work Day.
The event, organised by the Babcock Women’s Network (BWN), invited a total of 40 children, aged between eight and 12, to take part in a full day of activities aimed at promoting science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) careers.
The group visited the Devonport based Southern Diving Unit 1, where they operated robots and tried on protective clothing that the Royal Navy’s bomb disposal unit use.
Following this, they met Royal Marines from 47 Commando Raiding Group, and learnt about their role before stepping on-board one of their landing craft.
The children then enjoyed a talk from Katherine Terris, Babcock employee and author of ‘Porty’s Whizzing Recovery’, a themed picture book that highlights some of the work that takes place at the Devonport site, before being introduced to two St Luke’s Hospice Elmer sculptures by volunteers who have been leading Elmer’s journey around Devonport.
The day concluded with parents being able to take their children to their workplace, giving them the opportunity to see where they work and what they do every day.
Cheryl Ellis, BWN Devonport chair, said:
“Studies show that experiences children encounter between the ages of eight and 12 are fundamental to their development and can influence future career choices. At Babcock we want to inspire the future generation of engineers, and particularly to try and get more girls and women interested in the engineering sector.”
Ten-year old Jack said:
“I liked the marines most because we got to explore the boats and even sit on the driver’s seat. It was also good to see where my mum worked.”
Eight-year old Lilly said:
“I loved seeing where my mummy works and playing noughts and crosses with the divers – and I won!!”
Mike Homer, managing director of Devonport Royal said:
“The dockyard is a really exciting place to work and to it’s been fantastic to give these children the chance to visit and see where their parents work every day.”
Photos by Matt Gilley Photography
