Society of Radiographers makes an impact at Birmingham’s Big Bang science fair
The society exhibited at the UK’s biggest STEM schools event to help raise awareness of radiography careers
The Society of Radiographers recently exhibited at Birmingham’s Big Bang science fair, a celebration of all things science aimed at children aged 10 to 13.
A multi-day exhibition designed to showcase science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) career pathways to students, the Big Bang Fair was held this year on 9-11 June at the Birmingham NEC, offering live demonstrations, quizzes and opportunities for hands-on learning from STEM companies all over the UK.
The SoR was among the exhibitors at this year’s event, raising awareness of radiography careers through anatomy games, a popular virtual reality demonstration and a radiography quiz.
Putting radiography on the map
Diagnostic radiography student Ellie Willoughby, who is studying at the University of Leicester, volunteered on the SoR stand and was on hand to answer questions from any curious students. “I think it’s great to see so many young people take such an active interest, especially when they’re so young,” she says. “I found out about radiography quite late, so I think this opportunity is great to put radiography on the map.”
An estimated 20,000 students were expected to attend the Big Bang Fair over the three days, organised by non-profit organisation EngineeringUK, which promotes careers in engineering and technology to young people.
The Society of Radiographers was represented at the fair by student members and staff, who engaged with pupils at the official SoR stand.
‘An opportunity to put radiography on the map’
Olivia Sawicka, also a diagnostic radiography student at the University of Leicester, says: “It’s great to see how the kids are really interested. And it’s very rewarding to help encourage them, and help them find out a bit more about radiography – about the profession itself.”
Michelle Tyler, SoR professional officer for careers promotion and outreach, adds: “The Big Bang Fair was a fantastic opportunity for the Society of Radiographers to introduce thousands of young people to diagnostic and therapeutic radiography and the breadth of careers available.
“With more than 23,000 visitors over three days, the reach was exceptional. Our interactive stand brought the professions to life through anatomy and imaging activities, a digital quiz and a VR tour of a radiotherapy department.
“Our fantastic student volunteers from Birmingham City University and the University of Leicester played a vital role, sharing their experiences and enthusiasm and helping us inspire young people who may never previously have considered radiography as a career.”
Pupils visiting the SoR stand had the opportunity to take part in four activities – a quiz, a game involving assembling the human body, naming the body parts of a skeleton and the most popular attraction: a VR headset featuring a virtual reality tour of a radiotherapy department. The virtual tour, funded by the SoR’s work with NHS England, gave young people the chance to see Therapeutic Radiographers at work and experience the clinical environment.
Watch the VR tour of a radiotherapy department
More about the SoR and outreach
The Society of Radiographers regularly carries out outreach work, aimed at raising awareness of the profession among young people.
From exhibiting at careers fairs to working closely with education providers, the society is committed to the promotion and growth of the radiography workforce.
Find out more about the Society of Radiographers outreach here.
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