Engaging engineers of the future: MD Luke Parker visits Granville Academy

Recently our Managing Director Luke Parker re-visited his old school Granville Academy in Woodville to deliver inspirational sessions to keen students as part of their Industry Engagement day, Alongside others including Sgt Johnny Miller from the RAF, Adam Wallbank from Siemens Mobility Limited and Ashley Downer from Pladis Global.

The industry engagement event took place on Thursday 24th April at Granville Academy from 9:00am to 1:30pm. Sessions lasted 30 minutes and were delivered to groups of approximately 30 students at a time following a carousel timetable, and engaging with 6 different industry experts through the day.

Louis Mcilveen, The event organiser said –
“As the organiser of our Industry Engagement Morning, I was thrilled to welcome Acres Engineering to the academy. Their visit provided an inspiring insight into the world of engineering and manufacturing, and it was fantastic to see our students so engaged and motivated by the real-world experiences and innovative projects they shared.”

One of the year 8 students said – “Engineering/manufacturing is more interesting than I thought it would be, and I might now be interested in looking into Engineering as one of my GCSE options. I enjoyed the talk, and liked that we were able to ask questions”.

“It was a privilege to attend and present at Granville Academy’s Industry Engagement Event, connecting with over 170 enthusiastic Year 8 students across six groups. Events like these are a fantastic opportunity to spark curiosity about the world of engineering and manufacturing, and I was proud to represent Acres Engineering alongside respected professionals from the RAF, Siemens Mobility Limited, and Pladis Global. The energy and engagement from the students were inspiring, and it’s always a pleasure to support initiatives that inform and motivate the next generation of talent.”
– Luke Parker, Managing Director, Acres Engineering Ltd

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Industry events in schools like this offer many advantages to students:

🧠 1. Real-World Context for Learning

Why it matters: Students often struggle to see how classroom learning connects to real life.
How experts help:

• They explain how subjects like math, science, or design are applied in real jobs.

• They make abstract concepts concrete by showing real tools, workflows, or products.

• This connection boosts engagement and motivation to learn.

💼 2. Career Awareness and Inspiration

Why it matters: Many students are unaware of the variety of career paths available.
How experts help:

• They introduce jobs students might not have considered or even known existed.

• They share personal stories about career paths, challenges, and successes.

• This exposure broadens horizons and can inspire long-term goals.

🧭 3. Role Modeling and Mentorship

Why it matters: Positive role models help shape student ambitions and values.
How experts help:

• They demonstrate professionalism, critical thinking, and perseverance.

• Students can see someone who looks like them or shares a background succeed.

• They may offer informal mentorship or pathways to internships.

🧩 4. Skills Insight and Future Readiness

Why it matters: Schools don’t always keep up with evolving job market demands.
How experts help:

• They talk about emerging industries, tools, and soft skills (like communication and teamwork).

• They provide clarity on what qualifications or skills are actually valuable.

• This helps schools better align curriculum with future workforce needs.

🤝 5. Stronger School-Industry Partnerships

Why it matters: Education is more effective when connected to the community.
How experts help:

• Their visits can lead to internships, apprenticeships, or project collaborations.

• Companies may donate equipment, resources, or volunteer time.

• Schools gain credibility and community support.

🎤 6. Boosting Student Confidence and Engagement

Why it matters: Students benefit from interactions beyond teachers and textbooks.
How experts help:

• Engaging stories and Q&A sessions encourage curiosity and participation.

• Students feel respected when professionals take the time to speak with them.

• It often leads to greater self-belief and aspiration.

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Acres have a range of standard products but also support clients with custom machinery and medium-high volume products such as trolleys, stillages etc. 

We have manufactured lots of different tables / workstations / workbenches for various industries.

We also manufacture access platforms, jigs and fixtures and many other types of production support solutions / products. 

Talk to us today about your requirements: [email protected] / 01332695240 / Contact Us Form

 

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Want to know more about Acres Engineering?

We are based in the UK from our Headquarters in Derbyshire, England and have a European office in Malaga, Spain within the EU.

 

Find out more about where we have been and what we have been up to by checking out our latest blog posts.

Take a look at how we support of the Armed Forces, STEM/Schools and Charities. 

As a world leader in our field, we offer a range of information guides sharing best practice with our clients.

We make it easy to engage with us, we are approved on: EcoVadis (external) / JOSCAR (external) / AVETTA (external) / COUPA (external) / SAP ARIBA (external) / DEEPSTREAM (external) ….you can download our BSI / Insurance certificates here.