90 schoolchildren design the cities of tomorrow at the University of Portsmouth

The University of Portsmouth recently hosted a full day of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) discovery for local young people. 

The activity filled day provided a unique opportunity to tackle real-world challenges, discover innovative facilities, and explore ideas that could shape the cities of tomorrow. 

Around 90 students from nine local schools took part in the 5PARK EcoCity Challenge Day, an immersive experience delivered by STEMunity, a UK-based STEM and STEAM outreach initiative, in collaboration with the University's Faculty of Technology and outreach team. 

Students enjoyed a rich programme of workshops and activities, including model making, robotics, renewable energy, eco housing and 3D printing. 

Throughout the day, the students worked alongside peers from different schools, experiencing university life first-hand and developing practical skills in a collaborative environment. A highlight was a Doodle Networking session led by Seekers Create, connecting students with professionals and inviting them to share their own ideas about the future of Portsmouth.  

Portsmouth North MP Amanda Martin and Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan kicked things off with a series of real-world challenges. Their involvement underscores the importance of STEM education for Portsmouth's future. 

Commenting, Stephen Morgan, MP for Portsmouth South, said: “What makes our city special to me has always been its incredible culture and community. Together, they have made Portsmouth the vibrant and rich place that it is today, with a unique identity that is worth both celebrating and protecting.   

“Going forward, the challenge for the future of Portsmouth is staying true to who we are whilst growing and modernising our city to continue to ensure accessibility and sustainability. The voices of young people will be crucial to shaping what this future looks like, with their ideas, experiences and perspectives all having the potential to make a real difference.” 

One of the day's most popular stops was the University's robotics laboratory, where students were able to interact with robotic systems and see how engineering principles come to life in practice.  

The lab offers access to industry-standard equipment and gives a glimpse into the kinds of technology that are shaping fields from manufacturing and logistics to healthcare and environmental science - bringing abstract ideas into vivid, tangible focus for many of the young visitors. 

Laura Watford, Teaching Fellow from the University of Portsmouth’s Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences and co-lead of STEMunity, said: "The EcoCity Challenge Day is about so much more than STEM - it's about showing young people that their ideas matter and that they have the creativity and capability to shape the world around them. 

"Watching students from across Portsmouth and Gosport come together, tackle real challenges and leave buzzing with ideas is exactly why we do this work. Through STEMunity, we've now reached over 54,000 students in 34 countries, and every day like this one reminds us that when we invest in young people's curiosity, the impact is truly limitless." 

Teachers said they saw increased confidence, improved teamwork and greater participation among the students. One described seeing them "interacting and truly working collaboratively," while another described a quieter student who "came out of his shell… and felt confident enough to share his ideas" - a moment that speaks to the transformative potential of hands-on learning in an inspiring environment. 

The EcoCity Challenge Day is the first of several projects that pupils will continue to develop back in their schools, embedding the skills and enthusiasm generated on the day. This model of connected, community-rooted STEM education reflects the University of Portsmouth's broader commitment to widening participation and inspiring the next generation. 

From in-school workshops and campus visit days to mentoring programmes and subject taster sessions, the University's outreach work is embedded in the fabric of the city it serves.   

The event was funded through the Portsmouth 100 grant, with lead funding provided by Teachers Group Educational Trust (TGET).