Celebrating Future Engineers: Winton Academy and Andover College Students Tour Leading Local Manufacturers for National Manufacturing Day
Students from Year 9 at Winton Academy and T Level Engineering students from Andover College (Sparsholt College Group) took part in an inspiring day of factory tours and industry engagement to mark Make UK’s National Manufacturing Day. The visits to M R T Castings Ltd and PLP Ltd showcased the strength of global manufacturing right here in the Test Valley and highlighted the exciting career opportunities available in engineering and manufacturing.
Organised by Andover College, the day was designed to connect young people with local employers and to raise awareness of the thriving engineering sector on their doorstep. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to developing the next generation of skilled engineers and supporting the UK’s national skills agenda.
Students were given behind-the-scenes access to cutting-edge manufacturing processes and met professionals who shared insights into their roles, career journeys, and the impact of their work on global markets.
Helen Perry, Assistant Principal at Andover College, praised the collaboration:
“National Manufacturing Day is a powerful reminder of the innovation and opportunity that exists within our local economy. It was fantastic to see Winton Academy and Andover College students engaging directly with employers like MRT Castings and PLP. This kind of partnership between education and industry is essential to ensure we’re meeting employer needs and equipping young people with the skills and inspiration to thrive in engineering careers. It’s a celebration of what’s possible when we work together.”
Eloise Tipton, Head Of Year Winton Community Academy:
“Our Year 9 Winton students thoroughly enjoyed their visit to MRT Castings and PLP Manufacturing as part of National Manufacturing Day. It was an invaluable opportunity for them to explore the wide range of career paths available in the engineering and manufacturing industries. Seeing the inside of a working factory was a real eye-opener and has certainly inspired conversations as they begin thinking about their future GCSE choices. Our students also spent the afternoon having a fantastic tour of Andover College, where students were able to explore the diverse range of post-16 courses on offer. A particular highlight was the immersive interactive room, which really captured their imagination and showed what modern education can look like.”
Phil Rawnson, Managing Director of MRT Castings Ltd explained:
“Local manufacturers like MRT rely on our skilled teams. The future of our business therefore depends on inspiring and encouraging the next generation of engineers. National Manufacturing Day provided a great opportunity to open our doors to give students an insight into the world class products which are being made right here in Andover. We’re looking forward to continuing to build on these partnerships with local schools and Andover College to highlight the exciting opportunities available to young people locally.”
Debbie Fazackerley, People Development Manager PLP explained
“PLP were delighted to welcome students from Winton Academy and Andover college for National Manufacturing Day. The students were hosted by our own graduates and apprentices, who set them challenges linked to our products, as well as taking them on a factory and laboratory tour. PLP is proud to support local schools and colleges through initiatives such as NMD, as well as T Level and work experience placements.”
The event not only celebrated the achievements of local manufacturers but also reinforced the importance of nurturing talent and ambition in the region’s young people. With the support of initiatives like National Manufacturing Day, Andover continues to build a strong bridge between education and industry.
