Over 70 students from across Meridian Trust were left inspired by a session about designing for diversity, led by John Willis from inclusion charity, Power2Inspire.
John Willis was born without fully formed arms and legs. Inspired by an advert showing non-disabled players joining a wheelchair user in a game of basketball, John established Power2Inspire, determined that his childhood experience of being excluded from sports, should not be repeated.
Meridian Trust students from across the county, who are all studying GCSE Design & Technology or Engineering, began the day by reviewing a range of gadgets John uses to support himself in his daily life, including his car. The students then analysed and identified how these items have been adapted for his specific needs.
John followed this by talking the students through a day in his life, sharing with them the difficulties he faces. Students worked in teams to brainstorm ideas to solve these issues and demands for John, before presenting their design solutions to him and the other teams.
Students will now take their designs back to school and spend time developing the item into an actual 3D prototype, giving them invaluable design experience that will support them with their future studies.
Dave Bausor, The Trust lead for Design & Technology and lead practitioner at Ely College, said: “We are incredibly grateful to John for sharing his experiences with our students from across Meridian Trust today.
“Their fantastic designs show that they have really understood how design can be used to overcome barriers, preconceptions, and stereotypical views. They have empathised with others – and identified and understood genuine needs and difficulties.
“The work they are doing will be a great experience for them to reflect on in their assessments next year and we hope it will inspire them to consider pursuing Design & Technology and Engineering qualifications at a higher level as well as investigating and pursuing careers in STEM.”
Oliver in Year 9 at Stamford Welland Academy, said: “It was such a fun day and I learnt how difficult it must be living with a disability. My favourite gadget was the tennis rackets that have been adapted.”
Elysia in Year 9 at Ely College, said: “I loved today! John is so inspiring and it was so interesting to hear all about his life. It’s been fantastic to see the gadgets.”
John Willis, CEO of Power2Inspire, said: “I believe it is vital we promote design, technological innovation and engineering. These disciplines cover a vast range of topics, and, in particular, are crucial in helping disabled and disadvantaged people lead better lives. Design does not have to be technologically advanced, though it can be; what it must be is imaginative. Tapping into the imagination and vision of students helps us to address these challenges. It was great to talk to Meridian Trust students – I hope they are inspired to develop their skills, but above all to free their minds, and think the unthinkable, making all our lives happier and fulfilled.”
The event took place at Swavesey Village College and included students from 11 of Meridian Trust’s secondary schools; Ely College, Greater Peterborough UTC, Lincroft Academy, Nene Park Academy, North Cambridge Academy, Sawtry Village Academy, Sharnbrook Academy, Stamford Welland Academy, Swavesey Village College, The Ferrers School and Stratton Upper School.