Earlier this year The James Kane Foundation awarded funding to Greenpower NI & IE (part of Greenpower Education Trust) for an initiative called ‘Blueprints for Brilliance’ for their brilliant concept which would see, in its first year, 60 pupils from across two council areas (Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council and Mid Ulster District Council) design, build and race a single seat electric car.
Through hands-on vehicle design, build, and competition, pupils will develop essential science and mathematics skills, engineering design, data analysis, and battery management. Crucially, the programme transcends traditional classroom boundaries by integrating mentorship from local industry partners and further and higher education, creating tangible pathways between learning and career aspiration.
By positioning pupils as engineers solving real-world challenges, the programme advances informed career and education decision-making. Blueprints for Brilliance will help empower young people through capability, confidence, and genuine awareness of engineering and STEM career possibilities.
This is an exciting and innovative project that we are delighted to support.
Image credit: Greenpower NI Mid Ulster event held in May 2026