Professor Brian Cox arrives in Oldham

Oldham-born Professor Brian Cox has arrived in Oldham to inspire the next generation of scientists and to put the 'town on the centre of the universe'.

The famous physicist visited Brian Clarke Academy for a motivational talk and presentation this morning. He was also scheduled to attend a business lunch with Oldham Council staff to launch a 365-day challenge to the sector. 

As Oldham’s Economy Board plans to regenerate STEM careers in the town, businesses will be asked to commit to supporting education in as many ways as possible. 

His business address will be followed by a keynote from ex Saatchi and Saatchi Chairman and global business leader Kevin Roberts, who will be talking about personal leadership development for young people to succeed in the modern world.  

The bespoke ‘Great Horizons’ visit is a celebration of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.   

It will recognise the influence of teachers on future generations and will be an opportunity for education and businesses to connect and secure important links to drive STEM skills development and work opportunities in Oldham.  

Yesterday, Professor Cox, who has presented BBC science television programmes such as Stargazing Live and Wonders of the Universe shared his expertise at a science teacher and leader celebration event attended by staff across Oldham’s schools.   

This event provided inspiration to science teachers from the early years to further education and was part of Oldham's strategy to inspire and retain great teachers. 

This morning, the former Hulme Grammar School pupil hosted special morning assemblies, with a fascinating tour of the galaxy, for primary pupils.  

Professor Brian Cox returned to his old school, St Matthew’s Primary in Chadderton, where he was grilled by students and gave a breathtaking tour of the galaxy.

He encouraged the school to take part in a Great Science Share for Schools – a mass-engagement campaign to inspire young people to ask, investigate and share their scientific questions.   

Then in the early evening, The University of Manchester alumni, who also fell in love with music and played keyboard for Dare and D:Ream in the eighties and nineties, will address secondary and college students in a Q&A at Oldham Sixth Form College.  

Professor Cox, who will soon be touring the United States with his live show Horizons: A 21st Century Space Odyssey, said: "I am very much looking forward to putting Oldham at the centre of the Universe, where it belongs.   

“I believe strongly that every young person should have the opportunities to be equipped with the knowledge and skills that they need to go out into the world, and beyond it.  

“By encouraging and inspiring the next generations of scientists, the opportunities are limitless.”