£3M Drive to Create Next Generation of Young Scientists

A £3m project aimed at increasing the number of young engineers, scientists, technologists, and mathematicians in the Welsh workforce has been announced.
STEM Cymru will encourage youngsters to study STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, and maths) to improve qualifications, skills and career prospects.

Led by the Engineering Education Scheme in Wales (EESW), the project will target youngsters from 12 to 19 years to participate in industry linked technological and engineering activities including hands on activities, work experience, competitions, events, and career related programmes. The scheme is backed with £1.6m from the European Social Fund through the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government, with further support from industry.

Gwenda Thomas AM said: ‘These initiatives will encourage youngsters to take up Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. These subjects are vital for the development of a vibrant and sustainable knowledge-based Welsh economy, and, of course, improve the youngsters’ qualifications and career prospects’.

STEM Cymru will also support initiatives including:

• Headstart, which encourages year 12 students interested in STEM subjects to consider technology based careers.

• The Year in Industry programme is to be re-established, placing youngsters in quality, paid work experience to enhance university education and career prospects.

• The F1 in Schools Challenge will also be developed where pupils design model F1 cars using sophisticated Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, make real working models and compete against teams from different schools. Pupils will be given training and support throughout the challenge to encourage them to develop STEM and other skills.

• Go4Set scheme in which year 9 pupils will be linked to companies and universities to offer a 10 week science, engineering and technology experience, helping them to make key stage 4 options with regard to STEM subjects.

• Colegau Cymru Engineering Week in which Year 9 pupils will attend a local college for a day to experience engineering activities.

• Apprentice Futures raises awareness of apprenticeship skills in the workplace and addresses skills gaps to support employers and the uptake of Modern Apprenticeships. Under this strand of STEM Cymru, Apprentice of the Year presentation and award days will be arranged.