Inspiring the next generation of Innovators: Reflections from the 2026 Education Engineering Scheme Wales (EESW) Awards and Exhibition

The annual EESW Awards and Exhibition is a vibrant celebration of creativity and technological thinking across Wales, bringing together learners, educators, and industry professionals to recognise the outstanding achievements of young designers and technologists. At its heart is a learner competition that culminates in two showcase events: in 2026, the North Wales event was held at the Conwy Business Centre in Conwy, while the South Wales event took place in the Great Hall at Swansea University. 

Celebrating innovation and creativity in Wales 

The competition saw learners spend several months developing innovative solutions to real-world challenges, set by local companies. This provided them with valuable insight into industry expectations while helping them build key transferable skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and communication - qualities highly valued by employers. With more than 50 schools participating across both regions, the competition highlighted the growing strength, diversity, and enthusiasm for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in Wales. 

The completed projects were then showcased at the two events and assessed by volunteer STEM professionals, who had reviewed the written reports in advance. 

Alongside the competition, learners also had the opportunity to explore a range of exhibition stands at the events, including those from the Institute of Lighting Professionals and organisations such as Hogan and Bute Energy, offering further insight into STEM courses and career pathways. Swansea University, Aberystwyth University, the University of South Wales, and Trinity St David were also present, offering information on STEM study options. 

Sponsoring the Best Report 

As part of this year’s competition, we were proud to sponsor the Best Report category, awarding £500 in each region to recognise excellence in research, analysis, and communication - key skills needed for success in both education and industry. 

Congratulations to everyone who took part, with special recognition going to the winners of the Best Report category - Ysgol Friars in Bangor, for their outstanding project on reducing surface water drainage charges, and Bishop Vaughan Catholic School in Swansea for their innovative lamppost design project. 

Reflecting on the exceptionally high standard of entries, Susan Miles, Subject Officer for Electronics, commented: 

“The groups worked on a range of excellent projects and produced highly professional reports. The overall standard was exceptionally high, and I’m confident the learners gained valuable experience from taking part.” 

The future of STEM in Wales 

Events like these highlight the importance of nurturing young talent, strengthening links between education and industry, and keeping practical creativity at the heart of qualifications. They also reflect Wales’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and technical excellence through education.  

WJEC supports this through a wide range of STEM qualifications, including Design and Technology, Engineering, a variety of Mathematics courses, and a new suite of Science GCSEs. 

We look forward to seeing how these talented innovators continue to shape the future of technology and creativity in Wales and look forward to what the 2027 event will bring.