‘Inspire young people to tackle climate change’: Jeremy Miles MS

Jeremy Miles MS, Minister for Education and Welsh Language, has called on businesses and education providers to work together to tackle climate change by inspiring more young people to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects.

Speaking at an event hosted by Paul Davies MS, the Darwin Centre and Floventis Energy, a joint venture between Cierco and SBM Offshore, the Minister said: “Learning about climate change and the benefits of renewable energy is a key area of our new curriculum and is why I have provided £1.5 million to support STEM education programmes with a range of partners. 

“This event is a great example of this working in practice—inspiring our young people with hands-on experiences of science and nature. It’s been fantastic to see the work they have created.”

More than 60 guests from education and business attended the event, which featured a display of work by Pembrokeshire schoolchildren who have taken part in a bespoke programme run by Floventis and the Darwin Centre. A series of workshops on floating offshore wind for key stage 2 pupils comprised an overview of climate change, fossil fuels and the benefits of renewable energy with a focus on mitigating climate change and future job opportunities.

Schools had the option to choose between two different workshops: one focused on platform design and construction, the other focused on climate change and wind turbine design. Educational resources were provided to the participating schools.

Tess Blazey, Director of Policy and External Affairs for Floventis, said: “As we continue to roll out our education and outreach programme, it is great to see how engaged local children are with their local environment and the opportunities that offshore wind will bring to Wales. We hope the work we are doing will inspire young people to develop their STEM skills and consider future careers in renewable energy.”

Floventis Energy is the company behind the Llŷr 1 and Llŷr 2 projects, comprising two separate 100MW floating offshore wind farms in the Celtic Sea.