How can countries produce the energy their cities need without destroying the planet? It’s one of the biggest challenges facing humans in the 21st century and one Shell is posing to pupils aged 11 to 14 across Great Britain in a new competition to inspire future scientists and engineers. Anna Haslam reports.

Our world today is more exciting, dynamic and fast moving than it has ever been, and it is scientists and engineers that have made this modern life possible. They’ve cured diseases, transformed communications and sent mankind to the depths of the oceans and into space.

That power to transform and to positively shape our future should make being a scientist or engineer the most coveted, over-subscribed career in the world, with students clamouring to become one. But unfortunately nothing could be further from the truth. EngineeringUK predicts that the UK has an annual shortfall of over 55,000 engineers.

The current skills shortage in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) is one of the biggest challenges facing all of us in the UK. Without a rich talent pool of future scientists and engineers, our ability to technologically innovate and to ensure we’re all well placed to tackle the huge challenges that lie ahead is fundamentally compromised.

That is why Shell is offering a new programme of national schools workshops, competitions and events that aim to inspire students to see how what they learn in STEM lessons can solve real-world issues. The programme includes ‘The Bright Ideas Challenge’, which will invite students aged 11 to 14 to explore the energy challenges that face future cities. We are also hosting ‘Make the Future’, a unique festival of bright energy ideas. We’ll share some detail about these two initiatives, including how your school can get involved, in just a moment.