EDT shortlisted for BRILLIANT Awards 2026 for inspiring young scientists

We are delighted to share that we've been shortlisted as a finalist in the Primary Industry Engagement category at the BRILLIANT Awards 2026, recognising our partnership with Henkel to inspire the next generation of scientists through the Forscherwelt initiative.

Henkel’s global Forscherwelt programme, meaning “Researchers’ World”, encourages children aged 8–10 to think and act like real scientists. Through our partnership with EDT, the initiative brings hands-on scientific experiences into primary schools across the UK, connecting classroom learning with the science behind everyday products.

Rather than simply learning about scientific concepts, pupils get to experiment, test ideas and solve problems for themselves, including discovering how to create glue. By combining Henkel’s scientific expertise with our experience in STEM education and industry engagement, the partnership helps children explore science in a practical and inspiring way.

In its second year, the programme delivered 18 Industrial Cadets Challenger Experience Day workshops across nine locations, reaching 1,090 primary pupils. The initiative also prioritised schools where children may have fewer opportunities to engage with STEM and industry.

Being shortlisted for the BRILLIANT Awards 2026 recognises the impact of our Henkel partnership and the value of bringing industry and education together to inspire young minds.

By making STEM something children can experience for themselves, the partnership is helping build curiosity, confidence and awareness of future opportunities from an early age.

Find out more about Industrial Cadets and how EDT connects young people with industry through meaningful STEM experiences.

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