YEAR 9 accelerated science students at Nunnery Wood High School were given the opportunity to partake in exciting workshops about renewable energy on Friday, November 25.

Energy provider, EON offered the free Micro Mix workshop to the pupils as part of their new education programme,’ Energise Anything’.

The programme helps students to explore science in unexpected ways.

During the two hour Micro Mix workshops, which were facilitated by a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) expert, student groups became real energy consultants, gaining hands-on expertise as they built functioning models of renewable technologies (wind, solar and hydro) using power generating K-Nex Kits.

The groups then undertook a ‘feasibility study’.

They had to analyse, calculate and debate possible locations for their energy technology, taking into account the geography, public opinion and their fellow energy team’s conclusions, making recommendations on the best energy mix to meet a city’s energy demands, by considering environmental, technological and social impacts.

The workshops explored concepts in physics, design and technology and mathematics.

Sarah Lalor, Science teacher and Enrichment and Outreach Coordinator said: “We are really excited to have EON visit our school.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to gain an insight into the technology behind the harnessing of renewable energy.

"We’re thrilled that they will get a hands on opportunity to really get to grips with all the issues surrounding this important and ground breaking industry."