Our support is helping to build the clean energy workforce of tomorrow in South Wales

With funding from our Community Matters Fund, Engineering Education Scheme Wales ran several wind turbine workshops to engage children and young people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).

Pupils from Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Rhydywaun, in Penywaun, Bishop of Llandaff CIW High School, in Cardiff, Birchgrove Comprehensive School, in Swansea, and Caradog Primary School, in Aberdare, took part.

They learnt how a wind turbine works, how they are engineered and constructed.

Ellie Patey, Community Engagement Manager for National Grid Electricity Distribution, said: “Inspiring the STEM leaders of tomorrow supports their development and helps to shape a cleaner energy future.

“It is anticipated 400,000 roles are needed between now and 2050 to reach the UK’s net zero targets.

“I’m delighted to see how Engineering Education Scheme Wales has used our Community Matters Fund to open the eyes of a new generation to the possibilities of a career in STEM.”

Rebecca Davies, Engineering Education Scheme Wales CEO, said:

“EESW are very grateful to National Grid Electricity Distribution for their continued support through this funding.

“Without this funding, EESW would not be able to provide these workshops to just under 200 pupils in South Wales, which are vital to the skills development and raising aspirations in young people by demonstrating local career opportunities.”

A teacher from Ysgol Gyfun Rhydywaun said: “The workshop enabled the students to build on information they had learned and put it into a practical exercise.”

A Bishop of Llandaff teacher said: “It was great to give the students a hands-on activity/project to work on that links to curriculum, without being examination based and of course the wider skills involved, including listening and working with external providers.”

Pupils used kits to build their own wind turbine and measure the energy generated. By adjusting their design, each team was tasked with creating and recording the most efficient wind turbine. The workshop also highlighted careers in the renewable energy sector.

Our Community Matters Fund has awarded more than £10 million to charities and community groups across South Wales, the South West and the Midlands since it was established in 2021.