About the programme

The CUED outreach programme aims to introduce school children to the fun and excitement of engineering within a university research environment. Teams of student volunteers are given the chance to make engineering more accessible through activities such as public lectures, summer schools for A-level students and workshops aimed at primary school children. Last year, almost 3,000 young people and parents participated in one of our outreach events.

Typically, volunteers help small groups of young people in a 'design, build and test' activity, e.g. building a rocket launch pad. There is no set time commitment for volunteers; you can volunteer for as many or as few activities as fits in with your other interests and studies.

Reasons to volunteer

Over 300 current students are registered as outreach volunteers. Students get involved:

• to share their enthusiasm for engineering and science;
• to act as a role model for the next generation of engineers and scientists;
• to help to dispel the popular image of scientists and engineers;
• to develop the soft skills that employers love
• to give something back to the local community;
• and because participation is rewarding, worthwhile and fun!

‘A brilliant opportunity to help kids do all the fun stuff that you wished you had done more of at school!’ Part IIB student

Science, technology, engineering and maths ambassadors

All outreach volunteers become STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) ambassadors. This is part of a national programme to enhance young people's scientific and technical capabilities and raise awareness of the importance of these skills to society. The activity of STEM Ambassadors is logged, providing a verifiable record of your Outreach activity.  this is useful for some sponsorships.  If you are interested in taking part please contact the Outreach Officer.

Science week in the Lent term

Our flagship event, a Community Open day at Trumpington Street takes place on Saturday 14th  March. If you only participate in one outreach event this year, this is the event. Last year, over 1,200 people attended.   Most volunteers turn up on the day and help families make mechanical toys in return for a T-shirt and lunch.  However, if you have an idea for a Public Engagement activity, this is a great risk-free environment to try it out.  Print deadlines for inclusion in the brochure for the UK's largest Science Feastival are in early November but you can be part of our event even if you miss this boat.  Contact outreach-officer@eng.cam.ac.uk for more information.

Further information

For further details of the programme and a calendar of events visit the outreach website or contact the Outreach Officer.