Latest STEM funding round launched
Since 2018 our Hinkley Connection Project has awarded £345,000 in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) grants to 538 schools. So far, more than 130,000 pupils have benefited from new STEM equipment, ranging from programmable robots to 3D printers and everything in between. The Hinkley Education Fund is one of the ways we’re helping to help grow the future energy workforce and make sure the benefits of the transition to green energy are felt by the communities we work in.
Every state funded primary and secondary school in the local authority areas closest to the project (Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucester) is eligible to apply for a £500 or £1250 (for secondary schools) grant for STEM equipment during every year of the project. Local schools have been invited to submit their applications for the 2020/21 Hinkley Education Fund.
One of the schools that have benefitted from the fund is Haygrove Secondary School in Bridgwater. The school put its 2019 £1,250 grant towards a laser cutter for the Design and Technology Department. “The cutter enables the rapid build of prototypes, exposes our pupils to new technology and enhances creativity,” explained teacher, Lynne O’Hallaran. “It has made a huge difference to the depth and range of STEM projects students can undertake.”
The Redstart Primary School in Chard spent their 2019 grant on six advanced, programmable floor robots for children in Key Stage 2 to use. Teacher Roger Hunt said: “The children have loved working with their new InO-Bots. Their programming skills have deepened dramatically and their enthusiasm has been wonderful to see.”
Project Director, James Goode said: “The Hinkley Education Fund is part of National Grid’s commitment to encouraging and inspiring the next generation of engineers and we want to ensure our project leaves a lasting legacy for local people.”
