Posted on: Friday 17 April 2026
More than 100 girls are taking part in a new programme designed to inspire them to consider careers in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) sectors.
The Her Place in Tech programme launched on Wednesday at the University of South Wales’ Newport Campus, bringing together pupils, educators and industry professionals for a day of hands-on activities and career talks.
The project is led by STEAM facilitators in the council’s Aspirations team, which provides employment and careers support for young people and is delivered in partnership with Her Place and University of South Wales.
Aimed at girls in the last year of primary and first year of secondary, the programme introduces pupils to a wide range of STEAM careers through interactive workshops where they will be mentored by women working in the tech industry.
Businesses supporting the launch event included Ogi. Sero, TFW, Secura Nova, Hodge Bank, Campus XR and Science Made Simple.
Year 6 pupil Hope, from Blaenavon Primary School, said: “I really enjoyed the science workshop. It was really cool to learn about how the different things worked.”
Year 7 pupil Ebony, from Abersychan School, said: "The experience was amazing and very hands on. I loved the interactions we had with the different organisations."
Over the next three months, pupils will cover areas such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, robotics, aerospace and science communication, alongside visits to local technology employers.
Pupils will also work collaboratively to design a digital solution to a school or community issue, co-creating and testing ideas, before showcasing their product to everyone involved.
Since April 2025, the STEAM facilitators have worked with 17 schools to introduce activities and workshops that connect learning to future careers in priority growth sectors such as digital, engineering and green technologies.
Schools taking part in the programme include Abersychan, Blaenavon Heritage VC, Garnteg and Cwmffrwdoer.
Angela Price, Group Manager for Aspirations and Customer Engagement at Torfaen Council, said:
“The whole idea of this initiative is to inspire girls to see themselves not just as users of technology, but as creators, innovators and future leaders in tech.
"We’re delighted to be working alongside and supported by local businesses, whose involvement helps bring these careers to life and shows pupils what’s possible here in Torfaen.
"This work also directly supports the council’s Wellbeing Objectives by helping young people build confidence, skills and aspirations for future employment in high‑growth sectors."
Businesses looking to get involved in this initiative can do so by registering via the online form, or by emailing aspirations@torfaen.gov.uk