Henkel Brings Global STEM Programme Back to UK Classrooms

Henkel has announced the return of its flagship STEM education programme ‘Forscherwelt’ to the UK, reaching 18 primary schools nationwide in partnership with the Engineering Development Trust ‏(EDT). Following a successful launch in 2025, the programme will roll out for a second year, bringing hands-on science learning to children aged 8-10. 

A science-led company operating across both consumer and industrial markets, Henkel is home to brands including Schwarzkopf, Pritt, Loctite, Dylon and Bloo. Through Forscherwelt, Henkel draws on its scientific expertise to inspire curiosity, problem-solving and early engagement with Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

Forscherwelt – which translates as Researchers’ World – is Henkel’s global education initiative designed to encourage children to think and act like real researchers. Launched in 2011 in Germany, the programme now reaches around 115,000 children across 21 countries, delivered through school partnerships and education providers worldwide. Forscherwelt uses practical experiments linked to everyday applications of science, including adhesives, washing and cleaning, cosmetics and sustainability, helping pupils understand how science shapes the world around them.

In 2026, Forscherwelt will be delivered in 12 new UK schools alongside six returning schools, following engagement with over 1000 students across 19 schools last year. 

Sutinder Bhandal, President Henkel UK & Ireland added: “Early exposure to STEM is crucial. Forscherwelt gives young students the opportunity to explore science in a practical, engaging way, helping to build the curiosity and skills needed for the future.”

The programme is once again being delivered in partnership with EDT, the leading educational charity that connects young people with industry through its Industrial Cadets Awards. Julie Feest, CEO at EDT, said: ““We are delighted to continue our partnership with Henkel for a second year, building on the strong impact of Forscherwelt’s first year in the UK. The response from schools and students in 2025 was hugely positive, and this long-term collaboration demonstrates the real difference working together can make in bringing real-world science into classrooms. By combining our expertise, we are committed to empowering young people with the skills, confidence and inspiration they need to thrive in the future STEM workforce, and we look forward to building on this momentum in 2026.”

The programme will continue to roll out in schools across the UK over the coming months, supporting early engagement with STEM subjects and helping to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators.

About EDT and Industrial Cadets
EDT is a UK wide educational charity, delivering and accrediting 50,000+ experiences through the Industrial Cadets Awards each year. With over 35 years of experience connecting employers with young people and educators, EDT provides inspiring opportunities for young people to explore the exciting world of STEM, and the variety of rewarding future careers available.

EDT developed Industrial Cadets with support from industry to provide a benchmark accreditation, mapping activities against a skills and competency framework. Inspired by its Patron, His Majesty King Charles III, Industrial Cadets is the “Kitemark” award for young people engaging with the world of work, providing much needed insights and real-life experiences. For more information on EDT and the programmes available, visit etrust.org.uk.