This guide is the most comprehensive resource available on STEM workshops for UK schools. It covers what workshops are available, how much they cost, how to fund them, what to expect on the day, and how to choose the right provider for your school.
It is written for computing leads, STEM coordinators, deputy heads, and headteachers in primary and secondary schools across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Whether you are booking your first workshop or reviewing your existing enrichment programme, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
STEM enrichment has never been more important. The UK faces a well-documented skills gap in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. According to STEM Learning, 89% of STEM businesses report difficulty recruiting skilled staff. The Department for Education's computing curriculum, introduced in 2014, shifted the focus from ICT literacy to computer science, yet many schools still lack the specialist equipment and expertise to deliver hands-on computing and engineering activities. External STEM workshops bridge that gap, bringing industry-standard equipment, qualified instructors, and curriculum-aligned content directly into schools.
This guide includes specific pricing information, funding routes, curriculum mapping, and a fair comparison of providers. Every section is structured to answer the questions that teachers and school leaders actually ask.
What Are STEM Workshops for Schools?
A STEM workshop for schools is a structured, hands-on learning experience delivered by an external provider within the school setting. Workshops focus on one or more STEM disciplines (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and use specialist equipment that schools typically do not have access to, such as programmable robots, drones, 3D printers, or AI training platforms.
STEM Workshops vs STEM Days vs STEM Clubs
These terms are often used interchangeably, but they mean different things:
- STEM workshop: A single focused session (typically 45-90 minutes) on a specific topic, delivered to one class or year group. Multiple workshops are usually run across a full day, covering different groups.
- STEM day: A whole-school event where every year group participates in STEM workshops throughout the day. A full STEM day might include five or six workshop sessions, reaching up to 240 students.
- STEM club: An ongoing after-school or lunchtime activity, usually run weekly by a member of staff or external provider. Clubs provide depth over time but reach fewer students.
- STEM enrichment: A broad term covering any activity beyond the standard timetable that expands students' experience of STEM subjects. This includes workshops, days, clubs, trips, competitions, and visiting speakers.
How Workshops Map to the National Curriculum
STEM workshops are not standalone entertainment. The best providers map their content directly to curriculum objectives. Here is how workshop topics typically align:
- Computing (National Curriculum England): Algorithms, programming, logical reasoning, data representation, networks, and cybersecurity. Workshops covering robotics, coding, AI, and cybersecurity directly address these objectives.
- Design & Technology: Design processes, technical knowledge, mechanisms, electrical systems, and 3D modelling. Engineering, circuits, and CAD workshops support DT objectives.
- Science: Electricity, forces, materials, and the scientific method. Circuits workshops and engineering challenges provide practical science application.
- Mathematics: Measurement, geometry, coordinates, angles, and data handling. Drone coding, robotics, and 3D design require students to apply mathematical concepts.
- Curriculum for Wales: Workshops can be mapped to the Science and Technology Area of Learning and Experience (AoLE), supporting the “what matters” statements around computational thinking, design, and engineering.
Why Schools Book STEM Workshops
Schools book external STEM workshops for several practical reasons:
- Curriculum delivery: To cover computing and DT objectives that require specialist equipment the school does not own.
- Ofsted and inspection readiness: To evidence enrichment, careers awareness, and curriculum breadth.
- Student engagement: To motivate students through hands-on, practical learning with real-world technology.
- Staff CPD: Teachers observe specialist instructors and gain confidence to deliver similar activities independently.
- Careers awareness (CEIAG): To expose students to STEM career pathways, supporting Gatsby Benchmarks.
- Pupil Premium impact: To provide enrichment activities that disadvantaged students might otherwise miss.
Types of STEM Workshop Available
The UK market offers a wide range of STEM workshop types. Below is a detailed overview of each category, including what students do, which age groups each suits, and how they connect to the curriculum.
1. Robotics Workshops
Robotics is the most popular category of STEM workshop for UK schools. Students build and programme physical robots to complete challenges, learning about algorithms, sequencing, sensors, and motor control.
At primary level (KS1-KS2), robotics workshops typically use age-appropriate platforms that allow students to programme using block-based interfaces, combining construction with coding. At secondary level (KS3-KS5), workshops progress to text-based programming languages such as Python, introducing variables, loops, conditionals, and sensor-based decision-making.
Curriculum links: Computing (algorithms, programming, debugging), DT (mechanisms, systems), Mathematics (angles, measurement, coordinates).
Suitable for: EYFS through to KS5, with content differentiated by age and ability. Hyett Education, for example, offers three tiers: Beginner Robotics (KS1-KS2), Intermediate Robotics (KS2-KS4), and Advanced Python Robotics (KS3-KS5).
2. Drone Coding Workshops
Drone workshops teach students to programme autonomous flight paths using coding languages and visual interfaces. Students learn about coordinates, angles, and three-dimensional movement while programming drones to navigate obstacle courses and complete aerial challenges.
Safety is a primary concern. Reputable providers operate within Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) guidelines and conduct thorough risk assessments for indoor drone flight. All flying takes place in controlled indoor environments, typically a school hall or gymnasium.
Curriculum links: Computing (algorithms, programming), Mathematics (coordinates, angles, measurement, 3D space), Science (forces, motion).
Suitable for: KS2 through to KS5. The combination of coding and physical flight makes drone workshops particularly effective for engaging students who struggle with screen-based computing.
3. Coding and Programming Workshops
Pure coding workshops focus on software development skills. At primary level, students use block-based programming environments like Scratch to create animations, games, and interactive stories. At secondary level, workshops progress to text-based languages such as Python, covering variables, data types, loops, functions, and file handling.
Some providers offer web development workshops covering HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, while others focus on app development or game design. The key distinction is that coding workshops focus on the software side, without the physical hardware element of robotics or drones.
Curriculum links: Computing (all programming objectives), Mathematics (logic, variables, data handling).
Suitable for: KS1 through to KS5, with content adapted by age. Block-based coding suits primary, while text-based programming is more appropriate for KS3 and above.
4. AI and Machine Learning Workshops
AI workshops are a newer addition to the STEM workshop market, reflecting the growing importance of artificial intelligence in the curriculum and in society. These workshops introduce students to core AI concepts: how machines learn from data, what training data is, how bias affects AI systems, and the ethical questions surrounding automated decision-making.
Students typically train their own machine learning models using age-appropriate platforms, teaching computers to recognise images, sounds, or text. The emphasis is on understanding how AI works, not just using AI tools.
Curriculum links: Computing (data representation, algorithms), PSHE/RSE (online safety, ethics), Science (classification, data analysis).
Suitable for: KS2 through to KS4. Hyett Education's AI and Machine Learning workshop covers ages 7-16, making AI concepts accessible without requiring prior coding experience.
5. Cybersecurity Workshops
Cybersecurity workshops cover online safety, data protection, cryptography, and digital forensics. Students learn to create and crack codes, understand how passwords are compromised, explore network security concepts, and investigate simulated cyber incidents.
These workshops are particularly valuable because online safety is a statutory requirement across all key stages, yet many schools lack the specialist knowledge to teach cybersecurity concepts beyond basic internet safety.
Curriculum links: Computing (networks, security, data), PSHE/RSE (online safety, digital citizenship), Mathematics (cryptography, logic).
Suitable for: KS2 through to KS3. Content is differentiated to cover age-appropriate topics, from password safety and phishing awareness at primary level to network security and encryption at secondary.
6. Engineering and Circuits Workshops
Engineering workshops focus on physical construction, electrical circuits, and mechanical systems. Students build working circuits, explore conductors and insulators, wire components in series and parallel, and apply their understanding to practical challenges.
Early years and KS1 engineering workshops focus on structures, mechanisms, and simple machines, using construction challenges to develop problem-solving and teamwork. KS2 workshops typically introduce electrical circuits, directly supporting the Year 4 and Year 6 science curriculum.
Curriculum links: Science (electricity, forces, materials), DT (mechanisms, structures, electrical systems), Mathematics (measurement).
Suitable for: EYFS through to KS2. Hyett Education offers Early Engineers (EYFS-KS1) for ages 3-7 and Electricity and Circuits (KS2) for ages 7-11. These workshops require no IT equipment, making them accessible to all schools.
7. 3D Design and CAD Workshops
3D design workshops introduce students to computer-aided design (CAD) software, teaching them to create three-dimensional models on screen. Some providers extend this to 3D printing, allowing students to produce physical objects from their digital designs.
Students learn about design thinking, iterative prototyping, spatial reasoning, and the design-to-manufacture pipeline used in real engineering and product design. These workshops connect strongly to the Design and Technology curriculum.
Curriculum links: DT (design, CAD/CAM, iterative design), Computing (digital literacy, software skills), Mathematics (geometry, measurement, spatial reasoning), Art (form, proportion).
Suitable for: KS2 through to KS3. The combination of creativity and technical skill makes 3D design workshops popular for cross-curricular enrichment days.
8. Animation and Creative Computing Workshops
Stop-motion animation and digital storytelling workshops sit at the intersection of computing, art, and literacy. Students create short animated films using tablets, cameras, and animation software, learning about frame rates, sequencing, narrative structure, and digital media production.
These workshops are particularly effective for engaging students who do not see themselves as “techy.” The creative element draws in pupils who might not otherwise choose a computing activity, broadening participation in STEM.
Curriculum links: Computing (digital literacy, multimedia), English (narrative, storytelling), Art (visual composition, design), DT (iterative design).
Suitable for: KS1 through to KS2. Stop-motion animation is especially popular with primary schools as a cross-curricular activity linking computing with English and art.
How to Choose a STEM Workshop Provider
Not all STEM workshop providers are equal. The market ranges from individual freelancers to national organisations, and quality varies significantly. Here are the key criteria to evaluate when selecting a provider.
1. Qualifications and Safety
This is non-negotiable. Every person entering your school to work with children must have an enhanced DBS check. Beyond this, look for:
- Public liability insurance: A minimum of £5 million is standard. Ask for proof.
- Risk assessments: The provider should supply written risk assessments for every workshop, specific to the equipment used. Generic risk assessments are a red flag.
- Safeguarding training: Instructors should hold current safeguarding qualifications and understand the school's safeguarding procedures.
- Teaching qualifications: While not all STEM instructors hold QTS (Qualified Teacher Status), it is a strong indicator of quality. Providers led by qualified teachers are more likely to deliver genuinely curriculum-aligned content.
- CAA compliance: For drone workshops specifically, the provider must operate within Civil Aviation Authority guidelines.
2. Curriculum Alignment
Ask the provider to show you exactly how each workshop maps to specific curriculum objectives. A good provider will reference specific National Curriculum statements, not just vague claims about “supporting STEM learning.”
Look for:
- Curriculum mapping documents for each workshop
- Differentiation plans for different year groups and abilities
- Pre-workshop and post-workshop resources for teachers
- Assessment opportunities built into the workshop activities
3. Equipment and Resources
The best providers bring everything needed. You should not have to provide laptops, tablets, or any specialist equipment. Confirm:
- All equipment is provided by the provider
- Backup equipment is available in case of technical failure
- No IT suite or school devices are required
- Setup and pack-down are handled by the provider's team
4. Pricing and Transparency
The STEM workshop market has a transparency problem. Many providers do not publish their pricing, requiring schools to request quotes through forms or phone calls. This makes comparison difficult and time-consuming.
Key questions to ask:
- Is the price per day or per session?
- Are there travel surcharges?
- Is equipment included in the price?
- Are there minimum or maximum group sizes?
- Do you offer multi-booking discounts?
Providers who publish their pricing openly are generally more trustworthy and easier to work with. Hyett Education is one of the few UK providers to publish pricing on its website and offer an instant pricing tool.
5. Age Range Coverage
If you want to run a whole-school STEM day, you need a provider that can deliver age-appropriate content from EYFS to Year 6 (primary) or Year 7 to Year 13 (secondary). Many providers specialise in one key stage only.
Check that the provider offers genuinely differentiated content for each age group, not just the same activity simplified or made harder.
6. Track Record and Reviews
Ask for:
- References from schools similar to yours
- Case studies or testimonials
- Google reviews or Trustpilot ratings
- Evidence of repeat bookings (a strong signal that schools are satisfied)
7. Flexibility and Inclusion
Every school has students with additional needs. A good provider will:
- Differentiate activities for students with SEND
- Adapt content for different ability levels within the same session
- Accommodate various group sizes
- Offer flexibility if timetables change on the day
- Support EAL (English as an Additional Language) students with visual and hands-on learning approaches
How Much Do STEM Workshops Cost?
Pricing is one of the most common questions schools ask, yet it is also one of the hardest to answer. The majority of UK STEM workshop providers do not publish their prices, forcing schools to submit enquiry forms and wait for quotes. This section provides the transparency that the market lacks.
Typical Price Ranges
Based on the current UK market (2025-26), a full-day STEM workshop typically costs between £500 and £900 per day. This usually includes:
- A qualified instructor for the full school day
- All specialist equipment (robots, drones, laptops, etc.)
- Multiple sessions (typically 4-6 per day)
- Pre-workshop liaison and planning
- Curriculum-aligned content and resources
Prices at the lower end of the range tend to be for workshops that require fewer specialist resources (e.g., unplugged computing activities) or for providers operating locally with minimal travel costs. Prices at the higher end are typical for workshops requiring expensive specialist equipment (drones, robotics kits, 3D printers) or for providers travelling significant distances.
Per-Day vs Per-Pupil Pricing
Most STEM workshop providers use a per-day pricing model, where you pay a flat rate for the day regardless of how many students participate (within reason). This is usually better value for schools than per-pupil pricing.
Some providers, particularly those offering smaller-group experiences, charge per pupil (typically £8-£15 per student). Per-pupil pricing can make sense for small groups but becomes expensive when scaling to whole-school events.
What Affects the Price
Several factors influence the final cost:
- Travel distance: Providers based further from your school may add a surcharge. Some include travel within their standard price; others do not.
- Workshop type: Workshops requiring specialist equipment (e.g., drones, 3D printers) may cost more than software-based workshops.
- Number of instructors: Some providers send two instructors for larger events, which increases the cost.
- Duration: Half-day bookings are available from some providers at a reduced rate.
Hyett Education's Pricing
Hyett Education publishes its pricing openly, starting from £597 per day. This includes:
- A qualified instructor (QTS-qualified Computing Teacher-led organisation)
- All equipment (robots, drones, laptops, or whatever the workshop requires)
- Up to 5 sessions across the school day
- Up to 240 students reached in a single day
- Pre-workshop planning and post-workshop follow-up resources
- No hidden fees
An instant pricing tool is available on the Hyett Education website, allowing schools to get an exact quote in seconds without waiting for a callback.
Cost Comparison: Workshops vs School Trips
STEM workshops offer significantly better value than off-site STEM trips when you compare the cost per student:
| STEM Workshop (in-school) | STEM Trip (off-site) | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | £597 flat rate | £20-£35 per pupil |
| Students reached | Up to 240 | Typically 30-60 |
| Transport costs | None | £300-£800 (coach hire) |
| Supply cover | None | £200-£400 per day |
| Cost per student | ~£2.50 (based on 240 students) | £30-£50+ (including transport and cover) |
| Risk assessment | Provider's responsibility | School's responsibility |
| Curriculum time lost | Minimal (workshops replace lessons) | Full day including travel |
At 240 students for £597, the per-student cost of an in-school STEM workshop is approximately £2.50, making it one of the most cost-effective enrichment activities available to UK schools.
Read our full comparison of in-school workshops vs school trips
Funding STEM Workshops
Cost should not be a barrier to STEM enrichment. Multiple funding routes exist for UK schools looking to book workshops without using core curriculum budgets.
RAF Youth and STEM Education Programme
The Royal Air Force funds STEM workshops in schools across the UK through its Youth and STEM Education Programme. Hyett Education is an official RAF Youth and STEM Education Partner, delivering approximately 100 funded workshops per year through this programme. RAF-funded workshops are fully funded, meaning no cost to the school, and focus on computing, engineering, and aviation-related STEM activities.
Schools near RAF bases or in areas with RAF community links may be prioritised, but any state school in the UK can express interest. Contact providers who hold RAF partnerships directly to check eligibility.
Defence Nuclear Enterprise (DNE) EKO Programme
The EKO Programme, run by the Defence Nuclear Enterprise, funds STEM engagement in schools across the UK. Hyett Education is a delivery partner and has reached 280+ schools through this programme. EKO-funded workshops are free to participating schools and focus on STEM skills relevant to the nuclear and defence sectors.
Pupil Premium
STEM workshops are an eligible use of Pupil Premium funding. To justify the expenditure, schools should document:
- How the workshop addresses identified gaps in disadvantaged pupils' learning
- The curriculum objectives covered
- Student outcomes and engagement data
- How the activity contributes to the school's Pupil Premium strategy
Frame the workshop as enrichment that broadens cultural capital and careers awareness, both of which align with Pupil Premium spending guidance.
PTA and Fundraising
Many schools fund enrichment activities through PTA contributions. STEM workshops are a popular choice because:
- The whole school benefits (up to 240 students per day)
- The cost per student is low (approximately £2.50)
- Parents value hands-on, practical STEM experiences
- Workshops are visible, memorable events that demonstrate how funds are used
A single PTA contribution of £597 provides a full day of STEM enrichment for the entire school, which is a compelling proposition for fundraising committees.
Corporate Sponsorship and CSR Programmes
Local businesses with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes may fund school STEM activities. Technology companies, engineering firms, and defence contractors are particularly likely to support STEM education initiatives. Approach businesses with a clear proposal outlining the number of students who will benefit, the curriculum links, and the skills the workshops develop.
School Budget Allocation
If external funding is not available, schools can allocate funds from several budget lines:
- Computing budget: Workshops directly deliver computing curriculum objectives.
- Enrichment budget: STEM workshops are enrichment by definition.
- CPD budget: Teachers observe and learn from specialist instructors, making workshops dual-purpose.
- Careers (CEIAG) budget: Workshops expose students to STEM career pathways.
Making the Case to SLT
When presenting the case for STEM workshops to your senior leadership team, focus on:
- Value for money: £597 for 240 students is approximately £2.50 per student, far cheaper than trips.
- Curriculum impact: Workshops directly deliver National Curriculum computing and DT objectives.
- Ofsted evidence: Workshops demonstrate enrichment, careers awareness, and curriculum breadth.
- No disruption: Workshops happen in school, on your timetable, with no transport or logistics to manage.
- Inclusivity: Every student participates, including those who cannot afford trips.
- Staff development: Teachers gain confidence and ideas for delivering STEM independently.
What to Expect on Workshop Day
Knowing what to expect helps schools prepare effectively and get the most from the experience. Here is a typical workshop day from arrival to departure.
Before the Day
The workshop provider will contact the school in advance to confirm:
- Which workshops are being delivered and to which year groups
- The number of students per session
- The room or space available (usually a school hall, classroom, or library)
- The timetable for the day, including break and lunch times
- Any specific requirements (power sockets, table arrangements, SEND information)
Setup and Arrival
The provider's instructor typically arrives 30-60 minutes before the first session to set up equipment. Setup requires a clear space with access to power sockets. Most workshops can be delivered in a standard classroom or school hall. Specialist IT suites are rarely needed, as providers bring their own devices.
Typical Timetable
A full-day booking usually follows this pattern:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 08:30-09:00 | Instructor arrival and setup |
| 09:00-10:00 | Session 1 (e.g., Year 3) |
| 10:00-10:15 | Changeover |
| 10:15-10:45 | Session 2 (e.g., Year 4), first half |
| 10:45-11:00 | Break |
| 11:00-11:30 | Session 2, second half |
| 11:30-12:30 | Session 3 (e.g., Year 5) |
| 12:30-13:15 | Lunch |
| 13:15-14:15 | Session 4 (e.g., Year 6) |
| 14:15-15:15 | Session 5 (e.g., Year 2 or EYFS) |
| 15:15-15:45 | Pack down |
Session lengths vary by age group. EYFS and KS1 sessions are often shorter (45 minutes), while KS2 and secondary sessions run for 60-90 minutes.
Group Sizes
A standard session accommodates up to 30 students (one class). Across five sessions, a single instructor can reach up to 240 students in one day. For larger year groups, some providers offer two-instructor packages.
Teacher Involvement
A member of school staff must be present in the room at all times, as is standard safeguarding practice for any external visitor. Teachers do not need to deliver any content or have technical knowledge. Many teachers find it valuable to observe, picking up ideas and approaches they can use in future lessons.
Equipment
All specialist equipment is provided by the workshop company. This includes robots, drones, laptops, tablets, circuits kits, 3D design software, or whatever the workshop requires. Schools typically only need to provide tables, chairs, and power.
After the Workshop
Good providers will supply follow-up resources, which may include:
- A summary of what was covered and which curriculum objectives were addressed
- Suggested follow-up activities for teachers
- Student certificates or achievement records
- Photographs (with prior consent) for school newsletters or social media
How STEM Workshops Support Ofsted
STEM workshops provide evidence across all four areas of the Ofsted Education Inspection Framework (EIF). Here is how to document and present workshop evidence for inspection.
Quality of Education
STEM workshops directly support the curriculum by delivering content that many schools struggle to resource independently. Inspectors look for a “broad and ambitious curriculum” with opportunities for practical application. Workshops demonstrate that the school goes beyond textbook learning to provide hands-on, real-world experience with current technology.
Evidence to collect: Curriculum mapping documents from the provider, lesson plans showing how the workshop fits into the wider scheme of work, student work samples, and photographs of the activities.
Personal Development
Workshops contribute to personal development through:
- Careers awareness: Students learn about STEM careers and the skills required. This supports Gatsby Benchmarks, particularly Benchmark 4 (linking curriculum learning to careers).
- Cultural capital: Exposure to technology, engineering, and design thinking broadens students' experience and aspirations.
- Character development: Workshops build resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Evidence to collect: Student voice feedback, links to your CEIAG programme, records of career-related discussions during the workshop.
Behaviour and Attitudes
Well-delivered STEM workshops generate high levels of engagement, even from students who are typically disengaged. Hands-on, practical activities with tangible outcomes (a working robot, a flying drone, a 3D-printed model) motivate students and improve attitudes to learning.
Evidence to collect: Observation notes from staff present, student engagement data, comparison of engagement levels with standard lessons.
Leadership and Management
Booking external STEM provision demonstrates that school leaders are proactive about enrichment and willing to invest in specialist expertise. It shows a strategic approach to curriculum enhancement and a commitment to providing broad learning experiences.
Evidence to collect: Your enrichment calendar, budget allocation records, provider evaluation forms, evidence of how feedback from workshops informed future planning.
Documenting for Inspection
Create a simple evidence file for each STEM workshop that includes:
- The provider's curriculum mapping document
- The timetable and year groups involved
- Photographs (with consent)
- Student voice or feedback forms
- Teacher evaluation of the workshop
- A brief note on how the workshop connected to your wider curriculum and enrichment strategy
This does not need to be elaborate. A single-page summary with supporting evidence is sufficient.
STEM Workshop Providers in the UK
The UK has a growing market of STEM workshop providers. Below is a fair overview of the main providers, what they offer, and how they differ. This is not an exhaustive list, but it covers the most established names in the market.
Hyett Education
Hyett Education is a national STEM workshop provider offering 10 curriculum-aligned workshops covering ages 3-18 (EYFS to KS5). Founded in 2017 by Antony Hyett, a QTS-qualified Computing Teacher, the company has served 750+ schools across the UK. Hyett Education is an official RAF Youth and STEM Education Partner (delivering approximately 100 funded workshops per year) and a Defence Nuclear Enterprise EKO Programme partner (reaching 280+ schools). Workshop topics include robotics (three levels), drone coding, AI and machine learning, cybersecurity, electricity and circuits, 3D design and CAD, stop-motion animation, and early engineering. Pricing starts from £597/day with all equipment included, and an instant pricing tool is available on the website. Hyett Education is one of the few providers in the UK to publish its pricing transparently.
School of Coding
School of Coding offers coding-focused workshops for primary and secondary schools across the UK. Their programmes centre on programming skills, including Scratch, Python, and web development. They are a good option for schools specifically looking for software-based coding workshops.
Jam Coding
Jam Coding provides computing clubs and workshops to primary schools, with a focus on coding and digital skills. They offer both in-school workshops and after-school club programmes, which suits schools looking for ongoing provision rather than one-off events.
ComputerXplorers
ComputerXplorers operates as a franchise model, delivering technology enrichment workshops through local franchisees across the UK. The franchise model means quality and availability can vary by region. They cover a range of technology topics for primary-aged children.
V STEAM Education
V STEAM Education combines STEM content with performance and show elements. Their workshops have an entertainment focus, using theatrical presentation to engage students. This approach works well for younger audiences and STEM days with a “wow factor” but may be less curriculum-focused.
Inventors and Makers
Inventors and Makers specialise in engineering workshops for primary schools, focusing on construction, mechanisms, and design challenges. They are a strong choice for schools specifically looking for engineering and DT enrichment.
Sublime Science
Sublime Science delivers science shows and workshops with an entertainment emphasis. Their content focuses on chemistry and physics demonstrations rather than computing or engineering. They are well known for high-energy presentations but are more “science show” than “STEM workshop.”
STEM Learning's STEM Directory
STEM Learning operates a free online directory (the STEM Directory) where schools can search for STEM enrichment providers by location and topic. This is a useful starting point for finding local providers not listed here.
How to Compare Providers
When comparing providers, use the criteria outlined in the “How to Choose” section above. The key differentiators to look for are:
- Age range: Does the provider cover your full school, or just one key stage?
- Pricing transparency: Can you see the price before committing to an enquiry?
- Equipment: Does the provider bring everything, or do you need to provide devices?
- Curriculum alignment: Are workshops mapped to specific curriculum objectives?
- Funded options: Does the provider have access to external funding programmes?
- Breadth of offering: Can you book different workshops for different year groups on the same day?
Key Statistics
- 750+ schools served across the UK by Hyett Education
- 10 workshops available, covering EYFS to KS5
- Ages 3-18: The full school age range covered
- Up to 240 students reached per day with a single booking
- ~100 RAF-funded workshops delivered annually through the RAF Youth and STEM Education Programme
- 280+ schools reached through the Defence Nuclear Enterprise EKO Programme
- Pricing from £597/day, all equipment and DBS-checked instructors included
- ~£2.50 per student, based on 240 students at the standard day rate
- £500-£900/day: Typical UK market price range for STEM workshops
- 5 sessions per day: Standard full-day workshop structure
- 30 students per session: Typical maximum group size
- Founded 2017 by a QTS-qualified Computing Teacher
- All equipment provided: Schools do not need to supply laptops, tablets, or specialist resources
- National coverage: England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland