Year 12 students from Shireland Collegiate Academy spent an inspiring day at the New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE) in Hereford, gaining hands-on experience of life as an engineering student.
During the visit, students toured the campus and took part in a practical masterclass, tackling a front-end interface challenge for an Automated External Device (AED). The session tested their problem-solving skills and demonstrated the level of creativity, resilience and teamwork required in modern engineering.
Ben Brogan, Head of Sixth Form at Shireland Collegiate Academy, said: “What a fantastic day for our students! Seeing them completely absorbed in real engineering challenges and working together so brilliantly was such a proud moment. Experiences like this are why we work hard to build partnerships with organisations like NMITE; they bring learning to life, inspire our students and help us deliver the very best Sixth Form experience for our local community.”
NMITE is a higher education institute that reimagines engineering education. Unlike traditional universities, it focuses on small-group, hands-on learning rather than traditional lectures and exams. Students work directly with employers on real industry projects, gaining practical experience, professional skills and confidence from day one. Its inclusive programmes welcome students from a variety of backgrounds, including those without conventional qualifications, and offer accelerated undergraduate and integrated master’s degrees.
This visit reflects Shireland Sixth Form’s commitment to providing students with access to cutting-edge opportunities, whether they are aiming for university, apprenticeships or direct employment. Students returned energised, motivated and ready to explore pathways in engineering and technology in greater depth, illustrating the benefits of combining academic learning with practical, real-world experience.
Applications for year 12 entry in September 2026 are now open via Applicaa, the Academy’s online admissions system. Further details about Shireland Sixth Form and how to apply are available on the Academy website.
