More than 200 primary school pupils from Salford and Blackburn have taken part in an innovative programme designed to inspire the next generation of sustainable engineers and climate innovators. Delivered by the Centre for Sustainable Innovation (CSI) at the University of Salford, the Ingenious programme introduced young people to sustainable engineering, green construction and the role engineers play in creating low-carbon homes and communities.
Funded by the Royal Academy of Engineering, the programme focused on engaging pupils from communities where participation in STEM subjects has traditionally been lower, helping young people explore future careers while building awareness of sustainability and climate challenges.
Working in partnership with The Making Rooms CIC, CSI delivered a series of hands-on workshops where pupils investigated sustainable building materials, energy and water-saving technologies, biodiversity, and the environmental impact of the built environment. They then applied their learning by designing and constructing their own miniature eco-friendly homes.
The programme culminated in visits to the University’s Energy House 2.0 research facility and Morson Maker Space, giving pupils a first-hand look at how researchers and engineers are developing the low-carbon homes of the future.
Dr Silvia Tedesco, Associate Professor of Sustainability at CSI and project lead, highlighted the importance of providing meaningful opportunities for young people to engage with engineering and sustainability, particularly those who may not otherwise have access to them. The programme aimed not only to develop knowledge and skills, but also to inspire future aspirations and demonstrate how engineering can help create healthier, more sustainable communities.
Early evaluation showed strong impact, with more than two-thirds of participating pupils reporting a better understanding of how engineering improves people’s lives, and half saying they were more interested in learning about engineering in the future.
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For more details about the programme, participating schools and its impact, read the full article on the University of Salford website: https://www.salford.ac.uk/news/university-of-salford-inspires-future-sustainable-engineers-in-communities-hardest-hit-by-inequality