Supporting Teachers Through Change: How TECgirls is Helping Schools Turn New Curriculum Plans Into Action
- Jade Colton
- Nov 12
- 2 min read
Last week, the Department for Education released its new Curriculum recommendations, sparking lively conversations across the STEM education community. We’ve been hearing from teachers, industry partners, and other STEM advocates, and while the overall response has been positive, it’s clear that enthusiasm comes with a few important questions.
Most educators agree that the renewed focus on practical learning is a step in the right direction. More hands-on time in science, computing, and engineering? Fantastic!
We fully share the optimism around these changes. But we also know that ambition without support can leave teachers feeling stuck between expectation and reality.
Finding Solutions
For the past three years, TECgirls has been working hand-in-hand with schools to bridge that gap, giving teachers and students practical, engaging, and achievable ways to make STEM learning real.
Through our TECgirls Mentor Clubs, we’ve supported rural schools with ready-to-run STEM sessions that also provide CPD for teachers. Our Pioneer Challenge Days connect Key Stage 3 students with real industry role models, aligned with Gatsby Benchmarks. And our recent Aviation & Aerospace Work Experience Week gave girls across Cornwall the chance to step inside workshops, design labs, and even work on a real Spitfire.
From all of this work, one thing is clear: teachers are eager and ready to deliver exciting STEM learning they just need support, equipment, and time to make it happen.
That’s why we’re highlighting two upcoming opportunities to help schools take practical action now: the Royal Society Partnership Grant Webinar and the Cornwall AI in Education Summit 2026.
Helping Schools Access Funding
We’re excited to be working with the Royal Society to help schools across Cornwall and Devon access Partnership Grants, funding of up to £3,000 for schools and colleges to collaborate with STEM professionals on real research projects.
These grants are a great way to get resources and equipment for hands-on investigations in areas such as climate science, biodiversity, materials, and manufacturing. They’re open to students aged 5-18 and make ambitious projects achievable even in smaller or rural schools.
To support teachers, we’re hosting a free webinar on Monday 17 November, where we’ll cover:
What the funding can be used for
How to make a strong application
How TECgirls can connect schools with local STEM professionals
There will also be time for Q&A to answer your specific questions.
Exploring the Future
We’re also thrilled to announce the Cornwall AI in Education Summit is back for 2026, exploring the theme “Purpose, Policy, and Best Practice.”
On the 5th of January the summit will bring together teachers, policymakers, and leaders to explore practical ways to integrate AI into education across classrooms, curriculum planning, assessment, and student engagement. AI is already shaping the future of work, and educators need to feel equipped and confident to help students navigate it.
The event will share real examples, policy insights, and practical strategies to help schools prepare for what’s next, while keeping purpose and ethics front of mind.
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