The pupils, from WMG Academy, went to Sarginsons – the most technically sophisticated company of its kind in the UK, with over 80 years of history. It is one of the few European companies that is able to offer low-pressure die-casting, sandcasting and gravity die-casting in a single foundry.
The company is renowned for its excellence in automotive light-weighting, and works with some of the biggest names in the automotive, petrochemical, energy and engineering sectors as clients.
On their visit, the students got to see some of the processes at the forge in action, and also got the opportunity to get involved with some of the work – from performing quality checks on raw materials to carrying out inspections on cast and forged components.
The students each spent an hour and a half on the site as part of their metallurgy coursework at WMG Academy. The school is regarded for giving young people an insight into the world of work: school days last from 8.30am to 4.30pm, with students dressing smartly and being expected to behave in a mature, business-like manner.
“We were delighted to give our students an insight into the work that goes on at one of the most technically-advanced manufacturers in the region,” said Andrew Kyprianou, head of the Faculty for Engineering and Design at WMG Academy.
“Giving young people the opportunity to see what goes on in the world of work is a huge part of our school ethos and we are fortunate to have outstanding companies such as Sarginsons in our area where we can give them a real-life experience.”
The visit was also part of Sarginsons’ 2018 commission at the Academy, and will help the company select the students it will further sponsor onto advanced apprenticeships in foundry, casting and patternmaking. They will be completed at the Elite Centre for Manufacturing Skills (ECMS) at the University of Wolverhampton, of which Sarginsons is a primary supporter.
“The shortage of certain skills for business is something that companies, government and education are all looking to address,” said Anthony Evans, Sarginsons’ managing director. “WMG Academy is a fantastic place to learn and we are delighted to support the school and its students as they look to develop their knowledge and understanding of the world of work.
“We were delighted to welcome the students and give them an insight into what we do here. Hopefully they found interesting and helpful – and it may also have given them a new perspective on which career path they wish to follow.”
