(Image: Supplied)
Around 600 youngsters from schools across the Tees Valley and North Yorkshire took part in a two-day event aimed at inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and technology experts.
The North East STEM Foundation (NESF) organised the hands-on event at Yarm Preparatory School for 12 primary schools.
Businesses and organisations led workshops on hydrogen-powered cars, robotics, space, bridge and tower building, binary bracelets and a radiation rescue room.
Pupils test respirators and masks with 3M (Image: Supplied)
Michelle Henderson, director of foundation development at NESF, said: "Our aim is to give young people the opportunity to experience STEM in a practical and enjoyable way and show just how many different careers it can lead to.
"It was fantastic to see so many pupils involved, asking questions and enjoying the challenges.
"Hopefully, we've sparked an interest that will stay with them long into the future."
Using construction kits, Meldrum Group demonstrates how to create different types of strong structures (Image: Supplied)
The sessions were delivered by 23 organisations, including 3M, AtkinsRéalis, BAM Nuttall, Balfour Beatty, Costain, Cosmic Wonders, JBA Engineering, JN Bentley/Mott MacDonald Bentley, Meldrum Group, NG Bailey, Network Rail, Northern Gas Networks, NRL Recruitment, Pragmatic Semiconductor, Red Scientific, Sir Robert McAlpine, Spark Tees Valley, Technip Energies, Tracerco, Veolia and Tony Swanwick.
Pupils also carried out experiments showing how respirators protect people.
The North East STEM Foundation is calling on more schools and STEM businesses to join future events.
Northern Gas Networks explores how green hydrogen is produced (Image: Supplied)
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Ms Henderson said: "STEM is vital to the North East’s future.
"For young people, it can open their eyes to careers and opportunities they may never have considered, while for the region it's vital that we develop the skills and talent our businesses need to grow and succeed."
The participating primary schools were Village, Junction Farm, Holy Family, Whinstone, Carleton & Faceby, Breckon Hill, St John the Baptist, Layfield, Myton, St Paul’s, Teesville and South Bank.
Pupils take part in a radiation rescue room challenge with Tracerco (Image: Supplied)