With a sustainability focus pupils explore the impact of traditional food production models and climate change on biodiversity in Wales.
They explore urban farming and controlled environment farming as alternatives with advantages for food security and sustainability more broadly.
They are encouraged to think about how the choices they make directly impact the world around them and how technology, in the form of controlled environment farming, can bring about new ideas and new approaches.
They are introduced to microgreens as an increasingly popular crop choice that is particularly suited to anything from a windowsill to large scale commercial production. The microgreens are fast growing allowing them to witness the full growing cycle from seed to plate in 7 to 10 days.
As well as assembling the physical indoor greenhouse from a kit of parts and fitting it with various electronic components, pupils use Microsoft MakeCode to block code sensors and actuators that allow them to collect environmental data whilst their greenhouse automatically responds to the needs of their crop. The data collection system pupils code will record data from selected sensors throughout the cycle, making the data available for further statistical analysis.
Throughout the workshop pupils are assigned roles within their teams that encourage them to think about their skills and how these might relate to future career aspirations or opportunities in STEM.
Location and cost
Available to classes of 5 to 30 students, in secondary schools in Wales.
£749.
Secondary
