From Halifax to Orbit – acornITy delivers a space education project in Calderdale

acornITy is proud to announce that we have been selected to support the European Space Agency in promoting STEM and inspiring young people to explore careers in the space sector. 

Through the ESERO (European Space Education Resource Office) innovation funding programme, acornITy will deliver an exciting programme of space education activities in partnership with STEM delivery specialists RTC North and regional leaders Space Hub Yorkshire.

Bringing space closer to home

What makes this project even more special is its strong local focus. The programme will be delivered in Calderdale, centred around our hometown of Halifax.

By bringing a European Space Agency-supported initiative directly into local schools and communities, we aim to make space science accessible, exciting, and relevant to young people right here in our region.

This is about showing students that the journey to a career in space doesn’t have to start far away – it can begin right here in Halifax.

Inspiring the next generation of space innovators

At the heart of the project is a simple but powerful idea - to encourage students to look up and explore how satellite technology and space data can be harnessed to create a better, more sustainable world.

Students from The Greetland Academy and Halifax Academy will take part in a rich programme of hands-on, multi-sensory experiences  – combining technical, visual and audio learning to engage curiosity and spark a genuine sense of wonder about space.

Activities will include:

• Understanding the fundamentals of satellites and how they work

• Building model satellites and taking part in a simulated launch

• Interpreting real satellite imagery and experimenting with sensors

• Exploring how data collected in space is transmitted back to Earth – and how it helps us tackle local and regional sustainability challenges, from climate monitoring to transport and travel choices. 

"We are delighted to continue working with Steve Denniss at The Greetland Academy for the third year. His profound knowledge and interest in the field of space exploration serve as a powerful catalyst for our pupils, fostering an environment where they can effectively translate theoretical concepts into tangible project outcomes"

Charlotte Wild, SENDCO Teacher at Greetland Academy

A proud moment for acornITy

This project reflects what acornITy is here to do – creating opportunities, supporting growth, and helping people find their place in the world of STEM, innovation, and beyond.  

From Halifax to orbit and back again. Stay tuned for more on the project.