£3m drive to create next generation of young scientists

27 Oct 2010 01:20 PM

A £3m project aimed at increasing the number of young engineers, scientists, technologists, and mathematicians in the Welsh workforce will be announced by Deputy Minister for Science, Innovation and Skills, Lesley Griffiths today (Wednesday October 27).

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 Welsh Assembly Government, with further support from industry.

The Deputy Minister said the project supports the work of the National Science Academy in promoting the take up of STEM subjects to ensure Wales has the appropriate skills at the appropriate level to support the development of a vibrant and sustainable knowledge based economy.

“STEM Cymru provides a comprehensive range of extremely valuable and stimulating experiences for young people enabling them to get a real taste of the value of science subjects and the rewarding career options they present.

“I am confident STEM Cymru will encourage the take up of these subjects and help young people overcome any barriers – perceived or real – that discourage learners from studying these key subjects.”

STEM CYMRU will support a number of projects 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.

Director of EESW Bob Cater said,

“We at EESW are very excited by the award of this funding and look forward to working with our education and industry partners to involve more pupils in the range of activities we offer.

“The activities, which involve contextualised learning, will motivate pupils and encourage them to consider careers in STEM related areas.

“STEM Cymru will work alongside schools to encourage progression from key stage three to key stage five and raise awareness of career opportunities as well as with further and higher education to increase higher level skills.”