From Circuits to Smart Homes: Challenges Launched for Students in South East Wales

The Engineering Education Scheme Wales has developed a project to deliver interactive electronics activities in schools within the Cardiff Capital Region with funding partners CSconnected.

The purpose of the project is to raise awareness of the semiconductor industry and the consequent career opportunities that participating students will find within it.

In primary school Circuit Explorers sessions, pupils will develop an understanding of the role semiconductors play in modern life and design projects that will improve the lives of others while using semiconductor components.  So far in the project, classes in Year 5 and 6 have been excitedly discovering basic electronic concepts by investigating conducting and insulating materials, working with components, changing polarity and turning fans into helicopters! 

Secondary school pupils are challenged to explore the Internet of Things and how these can improve sustainability, efficiency and comfort in our new Smart Homes project.  Pupils assemble a system of sensors and actuators, and programme them using a micro:bit to demonstrate real world applications such as temperature controlled ventilation, active lighting or rainwater harvesting. 

Brandon Jones, CSconnected’s Skills Manager said:

“We’re excited to be working with EESW, supported by funding from the Cardiff Capital Region, to bring this project to life. South Wales is home to a world-leading semiconductor cluster, creating real opportunities to build exciting careers right here.  With this project, we’re helping young people in the region discover the fascinating world of compound semiconductors and how they power the technology all around us.  We hope this inspires the next generation of inventors, engineers, and problem-solvers to dream big and see how they can shape the future of technology!”

EESW has already delivered the project in 9 primary schools in Autumn term 2024.  It has been incredibly well received and the students have been thoroughly engaged throughout all sessions.  A teacher at Clytha Primary School, Newport said that the activity was highly engaging due to the “Hands on activities with the equipment – the children love to get stuck in”

Another teacher from Aberbargoed Primary School commented on the opportunity provided by the funding:

“It provided an opportunity for pupils to work with experts in a scientific field, raising their aspirations for themselves as learners. It provided opportunities for collaborative learning, problem solving and oracy skills development alongside the main objectives.”

The secondary school project will launch in the new year with EESW having already received a number of expressions of interest.

EESW are looking forward to delivering these projects in 2025 and schools interested in the 10 South East Wales local authorities can now book a fully funded session