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The Stiftung Zukunftswerkstatt Buchholz, founded in April 2012, operates an innovative extracurricular learning center in Buchholz in der Nordheide near Hamburg. As an operative foundation, it is dedicated to inspiring children and young people for mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology (STEM) – comparable to a sports club for these subjects.[1][2][3][4] Over 20,000 young people have researched, experimented and discovered their talents in this 600 square meter STEM lab.[7]
The main mission of the Zukunftswerkstatt is: Making STEM topics tangible, experienceable and understandable. It creates success experiences through its own projects, promotes curiosity and opens the view for nature and technology. Values such as (3–5 participants per group with a supervisor), and are at the center. This is how friendships are formed among STEM fans and bridges to the professional future via cooperation with companies.[2][3][5] The pedagogical concept emphasizes enjoyment of learning beyond school curricula – curiosity and experimentation as .[7]
The Zukunftswerkstatt offers age-appropriate programs along the education chain for 9 to 19 year olds:
In professionally equipped labs – with microscopes, robots and 3D printers – young people solve criminal cases, program or invent. Small group support by 8 full-time employees, 2 Federal Volunteers and many volunteers (including seconded teachers since 2015) ensures intensive support.[5][6]
The foundation with €60,000 foundation capital (interest for operation) was launched by initiators from business, politics and administration, including EWE AG, Sparkasse Harburg-Buxtehude and Buchholzer Stadtwerke.[4] The Förderverein Zukunftswerkstatt Buchholz e.V. provides financial support through membership fees and Premium Sponsors (from €5,000 annually). The board and managing director develop content, supervised by the foundation board of experts.[2][4][5][8]
Sustainability is reflected in the long-term investment of capital and the promotion of future-oriented STEM skills for industries such as medical technology, mechanical engineering or chemistry. The workshop addresses the shortage of skilled workers by teaching clever solutions for current challenges and turning young people into inventors and founders. Regional partnerships ensure practical orientation – a contribution to the professional future of entire generations.[5] By 2023, it has reached thousands, with a focus on inclusion and high-quality equipment.[1][7]
This description highlights the Zukunftswerkstatt as a pioneer in STEM education: A place that makes learning playful and effective. (2,347 characters including spaces)
