DiscoverChemEngLIVE Swansea – Inspiring the Next Generation of Chemical Engineers

11 March 2026, Great Hall, Swansea University
DiscoverChemEngLIVE Swansea brought chemical engineering to life for young people from across South Wales, welcoming 188 pupils and 14 teachers to Swansea University’s Great Hall for a dynamic, hands-on careers event. The event was supported by 16 employer and education exhibitors and 12 Swansea University undergraduate and postgraduate volunteers, all working together to showcase the breadth, impact and excitement of chemical engineering.

A Powerful University Experience

Hosting the event in the Great Hall at Swansea University proved highly effective, enabling smooth pupil flow, clear supervision and excellent accessibility. For many attendees, this was their first experience of a university environment. Being immersed in the campus setting helped broaden pupils’ aspirations and deepen their understanding of higher education pathways and the opportunities that an engineering degree can unlock.

So, this is what private education is like…

pupil experiencing a university visit for the first time

Engaging with Industry and Education

The event brought together a diverse range of employers and education providers, many of whom were participating in schools outreach for the first time. Exhibitors included:

• Swansea University Admissions
• Department of Chemical Engineering, Swansea University
• Oriel Science Flow Lab
• Swansea University Pilot Plant
• AtkinsRéalis
• Valero
• Tata Steel
• Arup
• BAE Systems
• Welsh Water
• Wales & West Utilities
• Celtic Sea Power
• GW-Shift
• Axium Process
• Zulu Joint Integrity
• Insite Technical Services
• Hyppo Hydrogen Solutions (Hydrogen Taxi)
• Pembrokeshire College

Pupils were able to speak directly with engineers, technicians and students, gaining real insight into careers in chemical engineering, sustainability, energy, water, manufacturing and emerging technologies

Hands-On Science and Engineering

Interactive activities were at the heart of the day, allowing pupils to explore engineering concepts through challenge-based learning and practical demonstrations. Activities included:

• A hydrogen fuel-cell powered taxi on display
• Cycling to generate electricity and power a Scalextric racetrack
• Exploding chemical reactions
• Nuclear waste problem-solving challenges
• ‘Lithium mining’ by extracting chocolate chips from cookies for maximum yield
• Water purification and filtration experiments
• A torque checker challenge
• Designing and testing foil boats – with the winning design floating an impressive 160 pennies using just a 15 cm square of foil

A highlight for many pupils was the guided tour of the Swansea University Chemical Engineering Pilot Plant, offering a rare opportunity to see industrial-scale equipment in action.

Developing the Next Generation – at All Levels

The event delivered benefits beyond the school audience. Swansea University undergraduate volunteers gained valuable experience in communication, networking and public engagement, while developing confidence and enthusiasm for future involvement with IChemE outreach activities.

The students loved the interactive industry stands. It was great to have undergraduates chat with the pupils. Very inspiring

Teacher