A new group for seven to 14-year-olds has begun at Widnes library, with the aim of promoting STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and maths) skills through fun activities.

Youngsters can join the group and try out different experiments and activities each week, such as making slime, building a binary bracelet, make a lava lamp and much more at the Halton Borough Council event.

Halton Borough Council’s Executive Board Member for Libraries, Cllr Phil Harris,  said: “STEAM skills are really important for the future – it is estimated that by 2030 the UK will have over seven million jobs that need STEAM skills.

“It’s important to encourage and promote how fun and interesting STEAM activities can be from a young age and we are hoping that the STEAM team group will be a fun and accessible way for families to try out new things.”

The STEAM team group will run on a trial basis at Widnes library, every Saturday 12-1pm.

The group is free to join and drop in. Halton libraries also host code clubs every Monday 3.45-5 at Ditton and Runcorn libraries and every Tuesday 3.45pm and 5pm at Widnes and Halton Lea libraries, suitable for 7-12 year olds.

These sessions focus on teaching basic code and programming skills using Scratch, Codebugs, micro:bits and more and are also free and drop in activities. For more information on library events, visit www.halton.gov.uk/libraries.