Case Study: Service Engineering

Produced for Future Morph, this video sees an apprentice in service engineering talk about his work. Service engineers are mechanical engineers who work on equipment such as engines and gearboxes. The student describes how his attendance at college fits with his job in an engineering business and allows him to learn whilst still earning a regular wage. Part of the video looks at how safety is an important issue when lifting and handling large pieces of machinery. This includes the use of a hydraulic hoist and links well with the classroom activity.

The classroom activity allows students to investigate how machines can be used to move a large force using a small one, whilst stressing they do not multiply energy. A demonstration provides an excellent introduction to the principle of conservation of energy.

This video was created as part of the Future Morph programme from the Science Council and dates from 2008. Although historic, it is still relevant and useful today.

More details about the current activity of the Science Council can be found on their website, which includes the professional registration award for educators, Chartered Science Teacher (CSciTeach).

Acknowledgements

• Lesson plans: Nuffield Foundation Practical Physics activities; David Sang, courtesy of Institute of Physics Practical Biology activities; Carol Levick, courtesy of Society of Biology Practical Chemistry activities; Emma Palmer, courtesy of Royal Society of Chemistry
• Supporting information: CoHesion Career Development Consultancy, Brian Cairns and Ruth Wright Films: Anna Grayson,
• Production and direction: Bob Walters,
• Direction and filming:  Phil Stopford and Twofour Digital Ltd,
• Post production: Bicton College

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