BAE Systems is launching a new STEM outreach programme in Barrow.

The programme, known as Beacon, is designed for children aged between eight and 11.

It utilises augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) tech to aid their understanding of technology and stimulate interest in science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) subjects.

The company has been collaborating with Lumination, an immersive technology enterprise based in Adelaide, to offer STEM-focused lessons and camps in Australia for several years.

Now, it intends to introduce this initiative to the UK.

A successful trial session took place in Barrow earlier this year, and BAE Systems is currently partnering with Lumination to devise a UK-focused programme set to launch in various locations across the UK next year.

The Beacon initiative has already impacted over 2,000 children in South Australia since its inception two and a half years ago.

The programme has had such success that there are plans to expand it increasingly across the state.

The announcement was made during a visit by the South Australian government to the Submarine Academy of Skills and Knowledge at BAE Systems in Barrow.

The South Australian minister for education, training and skills, Blair Boyer, made the following remarks:

"South Australia is at the forefront of the largest, most intricate naval shipbuilding and defence initiatives in our country's history.

"Exploring Barrow-in-Furness has highlighted the remarkable opportunities we have readily available to offer our young people as part of the AUKUS agreement.

"This programme renders STEM interesting and accessible for students and presents them with potential career paths which will be in significant demand.

"It will unlock a range of astonishing careers, and it's vital that we equip our students with access to these opportunities."

Richard Hamer, HR director for skills and education at BAE Systems, added his comments:

"Transporting the Beacon engagement activity from Australia to the Barrow area and wider regions across the UK builds on the effort we're already exerting to stimulate growth and address vital STEM skills needs.

"Employing AR/VR is an effective method to engage a generation that is progressively exposed to advanced technology, and we're certain this will contribute to the success we've already witnessed in Australia."