The REHIP project inspires the next generation of STEM learners through dynamic outreach and engagement. At its core is a network of STEM ambassadors - industry and policy research fellows - who work with schools, universities and employers to design and deliver innovative learning experiences.
Through workshops, school visits, mentoring and public events, we raise awareness of sustainable career pathways while building stronger links between research, education and industry. By bringing real-world science and engineering into classrooms and communities, it empowers young people to see themselves as the problem solvers and innovators of a net zero future.
We have built strong partnerships with schools across the Tees Valley, working closely with Kellas Midstream and the Centre for Industry Education and Collaboration (CIEC) to make STEM learning exciting, relevant and inspiring.
Bewley Primary School and Newham Bridge Primary
Pupils visited the Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre, where they took part in interactive STEM activities. They explored gas pipework demonstrations with Kellas Midstream industry leaders, and REHIP researchers introduced them to cutting-edge hydrogen technologies in the Hydrogen Lab, helping them see how science is shaping the future of clean energy. They also explored careers available in the net zero industry.
West Park Academy
Students spent two days investigating climate challenges and creative problem solving. They designed posters on sustainability, experimented with how surface area and temperature affect sugar dissolving, and discovered the role of hydrogen in clean energy through REHIP's interactive demonstrator. These activities connected classroom science with practical, real-world solutions.
In July 2025, we supported STEM Net Zero 2025, a landmark event organised by the North East, Yorkshire and Humber STEM Hub.
Across three action-packed days, over 1,000 young people aged 9-14 explored the future of science and sustainability. From designing police vehicles of the future to uncovering the science of paper recycling, the programme blended creativity with problem solving.
Coordinated by RTC North, the event highlighted how schools, universities and industry can come together to inspire the innovators who will shape a sustainable future for the Tees Valley.
REHIP researchers are not only active in schools - they are also bringing science directly to the wider communities. Fellows Dr Clair Cooper, Dr Alessandro Giampieri and Dr Prasanth Prabhakaran represented REHIP at the FameLab North East Regional Final in 2024 and 2025, part of the Cheltenham Science Festival's national science communication competition. They delivered compelling and creative talks to a live audience and panel of expert judges. The event brought together researchers from across the region and was attended by university staff, students and local community members, demonstrating the power of storytelling in making complex science engaging and accessible.
Taking science out of the lab and into local pubs, REHIP researchers Dr Mahdi Amanipour, Dr Clair Cooper and Dr Alessandro Giampieri joined the international Pint of Science festival in 2024. Their talks introduced audiences to hydrogen as a clean energy source, explored public perceptions in Teesside, and discussed the opportunities and challenges of offshore wind integration. The event welcomed members of the local community and created a relaxed, open space where people could ask questions, share perspectives and connect with cutting-edge research, driving the UK's transition to net zero.
Our outreach programme was recently featured as a case study in a new report by The Young Foundation, as part of the National Civic Impact Accelerator (NCIA), funded by Research England.
The report - Civic Climate Education: A Civic Approach to Climate Education - explores how universities and communities can work together to deliver meaningful, place-based learning on climate change. The case study highlights the Research England Hydrogen Innovation Project's (REHIP) approach to outreach and engagement, showcasing innovative practice in climate education.
