The IEE has launched Flipside, a glossy magazine targeted at young teens aged 11-15. The IEE, industry, academia and government have long-running concerns that, if left unchecked, the falling level of science, engineering and technology (SET) take-up among young people could lead to a major SET skills gap impacting businesses and the UK economy. Flipside has been developed to address these concerns.
Presented in a picture-led, consumer style that makes these subjects fun, factual and engaging, Flipside provides new emphasis on science-based subjects and brings them up to date with verve, colour and relevance. Initially each secondary school library in the UK will receive three free copies of the magazine. The first of eight issues in 2005 will come out on 10 January 2005.
“I hope Flipside will highlight the challenge and adventure in SET and captivate the next generation of scientists and engineers,” said Flipside's editor Dickon Ross. “We have packed the first issue full of interesting, eye-catching features on subjects that will appeal to young teens like Will Smith, X-ray technology, 25 uses for a mobile phone and interviews with the special effects guru from the movies I, Robot and Gladiator. There will also be regular pages of reviews, news, gadgets and games.”
Kate Bellingham, president of Young Engineers and best known for her role as presenter on BBC TV's Tomorrow's World, has been an advocate of Flipside since its conception. “There's little doubt we need to encourage more youngsters into science, engineering and technology,” explained Kate.
“I think it's really important to show children the 'lifestyle' side of science, education and technology, as well as the 'educational' side. That's just what Flipside does.”
www.flipside.org.uk will compliment the magazine by providing more information on features, career advice, quizzes and puzzles. Readers will be able to subscribe to the magazine on the website at £20 for eight issues.