Cadets from Dorset ACF present their working suspension bridge to Dick Strawbridge, modelled on Poole bridge
Dick Strawbridge MBE, who served with the Royal Corps of Signals from 1979 to 2001 and left the British Army as a Lieutenant Colonel, led an inspiring session focused on coding robotic vehicles. The hands-on experience gave young minds the opportunity to explore the exciting world of technology, problem-solving, and teamwork.
One of the event’s highlights was a thrilling build challenge where children put their creativity and engineering skills to the test - inspired by Strawbridge's time on Channel 4's Scrapheap Challenge. The teams constructed an array of impressive projects, including go-karts, a double-decker beach trolley, a suspension bridge with working elements, and even a portable toilet! The challenge was designed to encourage innovative thinking and collaboration, with the added benefit of gaining practical insights into engineering principles.
Year 6 students from Downlands Community School
The day was a resounding success, highlighting the Royal Signals Museum’s dedication to promoting STEM education and inspiring the next generation of engineers. Adam Forty, who leads the Museum's popular STEM education and outreach programme, praised the event:
"We’re delighted to have Dick Strawbridge here, not only as a former Royal Signals officer but as a passionate advocate for STEM learning. His hands-on approach really brought the day to life for the children, and we’ve seen them leave with newfound enthusiasm for problem-solving and engineering."
“I had an amazing time at the Royal Signals Museum, visiting the units there, playing Scrapheap with the youngsters and giving a talk - my first time back in 30 years!!”
The day before the STEM challenge, the television star gave a Royal Signals Institution lecture where he shared stories of his time serving with the Royal Corps of Signals and his subsequent journey in the limelight. He also visited soldiers from the 11th (Royal School of Signals) Signal Regiment and 13th Signal Regiment at Blandford Camp, engaging with personnel on the latest innovations in military communications.
To conclude his visit, Dick attended a dinner night with the volunteers and Trustees of the Royal Signals Museum, celebrating the Museum's continued efforts in education and outreach within the local community.
Dick Strawbridge with the Trustees of the Museum
For more information about the Royal Signals Museum’s STEM programme or to learn about upcoming events, please visit www.royalsignalsmuseum.co.uk or email visit@royalsignalsmuseum.co.uk.
