A one-day tech hub sparked an outpouring of innovation as budding scientists experimented on everything from earthquake simulation to life-sized robots.

Newham Recorder: Students tackled a number of experiments put on by big businesses ranging from Bloomberg to BarclaysStudents tackled a number of experiments put on by big businesses ranging from Bloomberg to Barclays (Image: Archant)

The live wires from East London Science, St Angela’s Ursuline, Jo Richardson and Lister Community Schools were among the 570 youngsters attending TeenTech City on Tuesday, put on at the Copperbox Arena in Olympic Park to spark interest in the sciences.

Ideas came thick and fast, as solar-powered glass cleaners, generating energy from the rain, glasses lenses that adjusted themselves according to your eyesight and emotion-reactive robots were dreamed up by the teenagers.

“TeenTech City was an amazing opportunity, and I can definitely say it has inspired me to look into a career in science or engineering,” said Guilherne Nogyeira, 12, student at East London Science School.

“It was really fun getting to play with the different pieces of technology and try out some experiments – I loved the robots too!”

Brainchild of BBC’s Tomorrow’s World presenter Maggie Philbin, the initiative works with teenagers from across the UK to open their eyes to the career opportunities available within science, engineering and technology – through both hands on experiences and national challenges such as the annual TeenTech Awards.

“There’s a huge amount of young talent all over the UK, and yet a generation still sits in the classroom convinced subjects like maths and physics are irrelevant.

“TeenTech City captures the imagination of those who at one time would have dismissed a career in science – allowing them to walk away with a real understanding of how they can make a difference to the world of tomorrow.

“We owe a huge amount to the brilliant companies and universities who came together to make today an outstanding catalyst – helping students see how creative and exciting this contemporary industry can be.”

To find out more, go to teentechevent.com