BUSINESSES, teachers and pupils are set to benefit from an initiative launched by the team behind Hereford's new technology and science university.

NMITE - New Model In Technology and Engineering, the first new university in Britain in 30 years, which opens its doors to engineering, technology and science students in 2017 - has produced an innovative campaign that will link schools and businesses and enhance education in scientific subjects across Worcestershire and Herefordshire.

Students will be given the opportunity to engage with local industries, and encouraged take part in a range of activities and visit businesses to see for themselves why the studying of science and maths is applicable to a future career.

Called NMITE Connect, the programme was launched at Hereford's Aylestone School by Norm Augustine, former chief executive of Lockheed Martin, who said: "If we can create students who are passionate about science and engineering and to use it to change the world we live in, the new University has achieved what it set out to do."

Tara Francis, systems engineer from one of the NMITE’s partner organisations, added: "We need to start identifying how industries can show the more rounded aspects in engineering support and NMITE Connect will encourage teachers in the county to look at their curriculums and identify how business can best support them." The NMITE Connect launch saw more than 140 teachers and business representatives come along in support of the initiative.