Did you know that there are so many customisable options when you buy a MINI that only one in 160,000 are identical? 13 first and second year Business students from Alton College now know that, having recently had the opportunity to visit BMW’s MINI factory in Cowley, Oxford.
The factory is the largest and oldest UK based production plant for MINI. Over 800 MINIs are produced at the plant every day, the equivalent of one car rolling off the production line every 67 seconds! The tour began in the robotics department, with a major focus on how automation is affecting the manufacturing industry. Staff on the day described the speed and precision of the robots as mesmerising, with sparks flying and the smell of welding being a permanent feature of the air.
After the robotics department, the students were shown the assembly line, focusing on the importance of quality assurance and control for prospective customers. This gave the students an insight into how the assembly line is intertwined with the outward facing brand of car companies across the world.
Chris Watson, a Business teacher who attended the trip said:
“The students really enjoyed the whole learning experience and left with a much deeper understanding of how robots and technology are at the heart of modern manufacturing.”
It was an absolutely fantastic experience for the students involved, and ultimately, the trip to the plant was an invaluable and hands-on opportunity for the Business students to see just how fast the modern manufacturing economy is moving forward and evolving. This will enrich their education and ensure that they are given unique perspectives on the inner workings of 21st century business.
To learn more about studying Business at Alton, please visit:
https://www.hsdc.ac.uk/courses/alton-campus/a-level/business-a-level-alton/