Get inspired by engineering at the Bath & West Show

Have you ever fancied running an army tank or building a racing car? How about inventing a new jet engine or looking after a navy helicopter? Or are you a computer guru, fascinated by the rapid rate of development in technology and robotics? Whatever it is that piques your interest, the Imagineering Tent at the Royal Bath & West Show is sure to feed those flames and help turn your dreams into reality.

Established as a charity, Imagineering seeks to introduce young people aged 8-16 to the exciting world of engineering, science and technology through fun, hands-on and practical activities. As well as running school clubs, the organisation holds several Imagineering fairs, including at the International Air Day at RNAS Yeovilton and the Royal Bath & West Show – where it has won the Gold award for Best Feature in Show for several years.

“The huge Imagineering Tent gives visitors the chance to learn first-hand about the importance of modern engineering in our everyday life,” explains Joy Smith at the Imagineering Foundation. “There are opportunities for hands-on inspection of some breath-taking engineering and technology used in production and defence, which can not normally be seen by the public.

“There will be challenges for all ages and abilities, from maths and mechanics to electronics, robots and simulators. Visitors will get a glimpse into the high technology that keeps our utilities working, ships afloat and planes in the air. There will also be opportunities to talk to young and experienced engineers and discover what inspired them to take this career path.”

Exhibitors in the Imagineering Tent include:

BMT- specialising in offshore environments and construction, BMT will be running three activities for visitors to learn about stability and buoyancy in a hands-on and exciting way.

Leonardo Helicopters – transform yourself into a pilot of a Royal Navy Merlin Mk2, design your own helicopter, learn what makes them fly, and look at real helicopter parts.

Rolls-Royce – the engine build challenge. Learn how a jet engine works and see how fast you can build an engine.

Wessex Water – a range of activities for different ages – including the opportunity to create connection supply pipes to match the perfect example.

GE Aviation – features a helicopter simulator as well as host of smaller activities and interactive games, including Plane Academy.

Visitors can also sign up for a workshop to go one-to-one with an engineer, learn how to use tools and make a working model they can take home. “There will be the daily Imagineering Team Challenge between companies with stands in Imagineering – always great fun to watch,” says Miss Smith. “Young visitors will also get a special ‘Passport’ to fill with stamps and stickers as they go round the stands and complete the activities, giving them a chance to enter a Grand Draw for a £100 prize.”

The Imagineering Fair is supported by – Bahçeşehir College; Baker Hughes; Bath College; BMT; Bridgwater & Taunton College; EDF Energy; First Lego League; GE Aviation; IET Bristol; IET Somerset & North Wilts; Imagineering Clubs; Leonardo UK; REME (Army);  Rolls-Royce; University of West of England; Wessex Water; Wiltshire College and the Royal Bath & West Show.