CSconnected Announces Awardees of Sparking STEM Futures Programme 2026
27th January 2026
CSconnected announces the awardees of its Sparking STEM Futures Programme 2026, building on the strong momentum generated during the 2025 programme and reinforcing its commitment to inspiring the next generation of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) talent across South Wales.
The 2026 programme will both scale proven outreach activity and pilot new, innovative approaches designed to strengthen the long-term sustainability of STEM engagement in the region. This work sits at the heart of CSconnected’s mission to support the rapidly growing compound semiconductor sector in South Wales, which is creating increasing demand for skilled workers across engineering, manufacturing, and advanced technologies.
Funded through a combination of Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) and the UKRI Strength in Places Fund (SIPF), Sparking STEM Futures 2026 will deliver activity for primary and secondary pupils, while also supporting teachers and schools to embed semiconductor-related learning beyond the lifetime of the programme.
“South Wales is already home to a world-leading compound semiconductor cluster, but its future success depends on the talent we develop today. Sparking STEM Futures is about more than inspiration—it’s about equipping young people and educators with the skills, confidence and pathways needed to access high-value careers right here in Wales. By combining hands-on experiences with long-term teacher support, we are building a resilient skills pipeline that will sustain innovation and growth in our communities for years to come.” - Brandon Jones, Skills Manager at CSconnected
CCR-funded delivery partners
The following organisations have been selected to deliver CCR-funded outreach activity in 2026:
iungo will deliver STEM clubs for secondary school students, leading to a WJEC Level 2 qualification, alongside a dedicated teacher CPD programme, building long-term capacity within schools by enabling teachers to embed semiconductor content into their own classroom delivery.
Techniquest will deliver an engaging school outreach show for primary pupils, designed to enthuse learners about innovation, technology and the world of work, with a clear focus on careers and applications within the semiconductor industry.
Engineering Education Scheme Wales (EESW STEM Cymru) will deliver an in-school secondary workshop, “Colour Code: Exploring Light and Images Through Semiconductors”. The programme includes built-in teacher CPD and leave-behind resources, followed by a teacher-led coding workshop to reinforce learning.
University of South Wales (USW) will deliver primary and secondary school workshops, STEM challenges and competitions, and comprehensive teacher training and resources. Activities will include building circuits, coding microcontrollers and exploring how semiconductor devices power everyday technologies.
Wild Connect will deliver a unique STEAM experience for primary learners through an interactive “Build the Robot” workshop for Key Stage 2 pupils, designed to make semiconductor concepts tangible, memorable and inclusive. This will be followed by “Die Bach: The Little Chip”—a 60-minute immersive theatre-in-education performance, blending storytelling, robotics and hands-on learning.
SIPF-funded delivery partners
Through SIPF funding, CSconnected will work with:
Engineering Education Scheme Wales (EESW STEM Cymru) - In the Swansea region, EESW will deliver primary outreach through “Circuit Explorers”, a hands-on snap-circuits workshop introducing pupils to LEDs, sensors, polarity and conductivity.
Oriel Science, who will deliver primary school workshops and public engagement activities, including their “SemiTown” exhibit. This interactive installation showcases compound semiconductor research undertaken at CSconnected partner Swansea University’s Centre for Integrated Semiconductor Materials (CISM), challenging participants to generate electricity using photovoltaics to power a model town, alongside facilitated activities in Oriel Science’s Science Corner.
iungo, further extending their accredited learner pathways and teacher development offer through SIPF-supported activity.
Together, the 2026 Sparking STEM Futures Programme will reach thousands of learners and educators across South Wales, strengthening the awareness of semiconductors, whilst building confidence in STEM subjects, and also creating clearer, more sustainable pathways into Wales’s growing technology sector.
Notes to editors:
Contact
Nina Stevens, Communications Coordinator
About CSconnected
CSconnected is the world’s first compound semiconductor cluster, located in South Wales. Supported by the Strength in Places Fund (UK Research and Innovation) and Cardiff Capital Region, the cluster unites leading companies, research institutions, and government partners to drive innovation, economic growth, and global leadership in semiconductor technology.
