TeenTech, an industry-led initiative founded in 2008 by TV presenter Maggie Philbin and Chris Dodson, helps secondary school pupils to understand their true potential and the real opportunities available in the STEM workplace.
The winning team from Ysgol Glan-y-Mor comprised three boys – Charlie, Lewis and Bradley – who called themselves the 'A Brains'. They developed an idea for a sensor guidance system for wheelchairs, which gives wheelchair users more independence and freedom. The team won the Transport Category Award, which was presented by TV personality James May.
Paul Griffiths, project co-ordinator at Schaeffler UK, said: "The boys came to the Schaeffler Llanelli plant to present their idea to us and we were able to provide some constructive criticism and technical expertise in order to help the boys to refine their initial concept.
"We also advised the boys to conduct some market research on their idea and to seek out local businesses who might be able to provide further support and advice on their sensor guidance system for wheelchairs, such as a wheelchair supplier."
Teacher Susan Quirk said: "The pupils have been working on the project for around five months and along the way have linked up with local industry, further education establishments and have had support from STEM Ambassadors. The project has taken the boys' learning outside of the classroom and has enabled them to develop a whole new set of skills.
"Involvement in the competition has brought huge opportunities for the pupils and made them realise that they can compete with the best young minds, not just in Wales, but in the UK as a whole."
