The event of the largest celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) for young people in UK took place from 14-15 March in Birmingham. The Big Bang Fair is an award-winning combination of exciting theatre shows, hosted by famous hosts, interactive workshops and exhibit and career information straight from STEM professionals and large companies. 

The Big Bang Fair also hosts national competitions for young people from all over the UK to compete for the grand title of UK Young Scientist and UK Young Engineer of the Year. From over thousands upon thousands of applications, only around 250 projects are chosen as finalists on the competition.
This years Big Bang Fair had over 70,000 visitors within the 2 days of the fair. Visitors ranged from primary school children to elderly and people of the public. It was truly fascinating to see the amazing exhibits from companies and young students. Projects from students varied from 3D printers made for £50 only to a young children's book written to challenge stereotypes around girls in STEM. 
A student visitor commented "some of my favourite exhibits were the 3D candy factory and the pig dissection workshop! I'm a lot more interested in medicine after seeing similar displays"

While the fair was going on, the students were getting judged all day long. Students were judged for the grand titles on 14th March, and several special prizes sponsored from companies such as RAF and Guinness World Records the next day. 

'It was quite nerve-wrecking to be judged multiple times, but our group won an award! It was definitely worth it!" Amelie, a finalist and winner of the RAF Award, shared with us her experience of being judged.

For any young people or adults out there, I recommend you attend the Big Bang Fair 2019 if you haven't already. I promise you will not regret it and cherish the experience, no matter your age. 

Ursula KarkiEltham Hill School