UK’s Primary Engineer programme may find a place in schools here

Education Minister Maszlee Malik with a car made by a five-year-old during a Primary Engineer lesson.

PETALING JAYA: A UK-based engineering programme meant for primary children may be introduced in Malaysia.

Susan Scurlock, one of the founders of Primary Engineer, said she has received strong encouragement from Education Minister Maszlee Malik to introduce this programme locally.

“We hope to introduce the programme across Malaysia as soon as possible and encourage boys and girls to take up careers in engineering,” Susan said in a statement today.

Maszlee today met Susan and her sister, Jennifer Scurlock, Eton House School Malaysia principal Andrew Ridgeway, and Education Malaysia Global Services chairman Abdul Rahman Mohamad Shariff to discuss the potential of introducing the programme in schools.

Primary Engineer is an introductory engineering scheme, based in the United Kingdom, aimed at children as young as five.

It has been introduced in more than 7,000 schools in the UK and has recently been introduced on a trial basis at EtonHouse Malaysia International School.

The idea is that thinking about engineering careers when one is 16 is too late because children as young as five are already designing and building cars with simple materials.

“We have had great success with the programme. This is the first time we are looking into introducing Primary Engineer outside the UK,” said Jennifer, who is also a co-founder of the programme.

“Capturing the interest of young children in engineering is vital to the future economy and prosperity of Malaysia. We are delighted to support this programme and look forward to its expansion across Malaysia,” said Rahman. - FMT