GUEST COLUMN:
Julie Timothy
Team Leader (STEM Facilitation)
Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council
In Blaenau Gwent, we believe that for young people to thrive in the evolving technological landscape, STEM education must bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications.
Our approach is simple but powerful: link STEM education directly with industry to ensure our young people develop the skills and perspectives they need for success in the workplace. This vision is supported by the Welsh Government’s Tech Valleys initiative, which has committed to transforming South Wales over the next decade by positioning Blaenau Gwent at the heart of innovation in new technologies and cutting-edge industries.
Our coordinated STEM programme, funded by Tech Valleys, extends across 29 schools in Blaenau Gwent, making it possible to embed a consistent and impactful STEM curriculum at every level of our local education system.
This setup enables us to conduct a STEM audit with each school, evaluating where they stand in terms of STEM integration. Using this audit, we collaborate with schools to create tailored STEM development plans that align with their individual themes and topics. Through these plans, we match each school’s needs with appropriate resources, drawing on our network of around 60 STEM providers to deliver engaging STEM activities, workshops, and sessions.
Interventions and involvement is the golden thread that ties our programme together, giving students hands-on experiences that connect their learning with the world of work.
For these activities to be more than just “nice things to do,” they must serve a purpose beyond the classroom. It’s essential that students not only acquire STEM skills but also start seeing these skills as tools they can wield in professional settings. Through partnerships with local businesses, our students gain insights into how STEM knowledge is applied within various industries, from engineering and IT to healthcare and environmental science. They see the direct relevance of their studies, helping them imagine careers where they can make meaningful contributions to society and the economy, which is why the team also links with the Blaenau Gwent Aspire Apprenticeship Programme to ensure that these opportunities are presented too as a career pathway.
With Blaenau Gwent’s rich industrial heritage, the transition from heavy industry to high-tech innovation is a priority. Our work is pivotal in cultivating a STEM-focused workforce ready to support the industries of tomorrow. This partnership between education and industry equips our young people with critical skills and gives them the confidence to embrace emerging opportunities in their own communities.
We’re not just preparing students for jobs – they’re preparing for futures where they can innovate, lead, and transform Blaenau Gwent’s legacy. Working together, we are building a foundation for a thriving, tech-driven future for the next generation.
