Liverpool John Moores University partners with Primary Engineer to inspire young engineers

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) has joined forces with Primary Engineer, a pioneering not-for-profit organisation, to inspire and nurture the next generation of engineers.

This exciting collaboration aims to ignite a passion for engineering and technology in young minds across Liverpool, Cheshire, and Merseyside through Primary Engineer’s flagship STEM competition.

Since 2005, Primary Engineer has been dedicated to fostering a love for engineering from an early age. The organisation bridges the gap for pupils who may not have engineering role models by empowering teachers to integrate engineering into their classrooms through engaging programmes and competitions.

One of Primary Engineer’s standout initiatives is the annual nationwide competition, ‘If You Were an Engineer, What Would You Do?’, open to pupils aged 3-19. The competition encourages students to interview a real engineer, providing a valuable opportunity to interact with professionals in the field. These interviews serve as inspiration for pupils to create annotated illustrations of their own engineering solutions to real-world challenges. They further develop their ideas by crafting persuasive letters explaining their concepts.

Fully funded for schools and home-educated groups in Liverpool, Cheshire, and Merseyside by LJMU and ABB Motion, this initiative ensures inclusivity for all participants, regardless of academic ability or educational needs. Every participant receives a personalised graded certificate from engineering and technology professionals, fostering confidence and enthusiasm for STEM subjects.

The impact of the competition continues to grow, with an impressive 75,876 pupils taking part last academic year. It has also demonstrated significant benefits for students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), providing an inclusive platform where their creativity and problem-solving skills shine.

This year, LJMU has selected an inspiring idea from Year 6 pupil Alfie, whose ‘Wonder Wig’ concept will be brought to life by the university’s ProtoTeam. Designed to restore confidence in individuals undergoing cancer treatment, Alfie’s innovative wig moulds to the wearer’s head to resemble natural hair. The university will engage with Alfie and his school throughout the development process, showcasing how engineering transforms ideas into reality. Updates on the build will be shared with Primary Engineer, allowing schools, industry professionals, and the wider public to follow the journey.

Primary Engineer’s STEM competition is an ideal activity for British Science Week (7-16 March), which is just in time before the competition deadline at the end of the spring term.

Educators can access a wealth of free resources, including cross-curricular lesson plans and student logbooks, by registering on the Leaders Award website. Register for free here.