Holyhead students showcase tidal energy project alongside Morlais at national awards ceremony
PUPILS from Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi in Holyhead were given the chance to present their work at the Senedd in Cardiff this week after being invited by Careers Wales to showcase their renewable energy project alongside the Anglesey tidal energy scheme, Morlais.
The Year 10 pupils were among only two schools in Wales selected to speak to delegates and guests at the Careers Wales Valued Partner Awards Ceremony, where they presented their “Power of the Sea” project.
Working in partnership with Menter Môn Morlais, the students designed and tested their own tidal-turbine prototypes, gaining hands-on experience of engineering in an industry setting while learning about tidal energy technology and career opportunities within the renewable energy sector.
The Careers Wales Valued Partner Awards celebrate organisations that make an exceptional contribution to careers education and employability across Wales. At this year’s ceremony, Menter Môn Morlais was named winner of the Best Supporter of the Net Zero Agenda category, recognising its work through the Work in Focus Challenge with Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi.
The award highlights organisations that inspire young people to consider careers in environmental, climate and sustainability-focused industries.
Student Lexi, who took part in the project and travelled to Cardiff, said the experience had boosted confidence and ambition among pupils.
“Working with Morlais and Careers Wales has made our work feel more important and valued. Knowing that professionals were involved increased our confidence and motivation.
The project helped us to think more positively about our future and raised our aspirations, showing that the skills we are developing at school can lead to real careers.”
Zalli Jones, Head of Design and Technology at Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi, said the project had helped bridge the gap between education and employment.
“The Morlais Power of the Sea project has allowed pupils to engage with employers and academics to develop skills and link classroom studies to the world of work.
With Morlais just down the road from us, it’s important that our students understand the opportunities available to them right here on their doorstep.”
Fiona Parry, Community Benefits Manager at Menter Môn Morlais, said the recognition was as much about the pupils as the partnership.
“We’re delighted to have been nominated and to win this award from Careers Wales, but more importantly that the pupils had the chance to visit the Senedd and talk about their work.
Ensuring we develop the next generation of local talent and help them understand the potential of the green economy locally is very important to us.”
Careers Wales said the nomination recognised Morlais’ work in supporting young people in Ynys Môn to explore future career opportunities within the renewable energy sector.
