MADE were invited to attend an Aspirations Day at North Birmingham Academy recently. The half-day event was aimed at Year 9 students who are currently choosing their GCSE options. The Academy invited along around 40 representatives from a wide range of industries including emergency services, contractors, HGV driver training schools, local inventors and the Royal Navy.

MADE represented Architecture and Design as well as offering some insight into the Built Environment as a sector. Anthony Ruck, MADE's Cultural Development Advisor, has a background in Graphic Design so was able to offer a broad selection of ideas for possible art and design-based career paths. Lorna Parsons, MADE's Social Media Advisor has worked in the architectural industry for 12 years so spent much of her time talking about the different routes into architecture and other related industries / skills.

MADE took along books and architectural models to inspire and excite the students. The difference in perception from the students of architecture and design was particularly interesting as the industry appeals to young people for different reasons. Some liked the idea of developing their artistic and creative skills, others preferred the more technical aspect to building.