Connected Communities – bringing telecoms into the classroom
Since 2023, we’ve been working with Cellnex, a major telecommunications company, to deliver the Connected Communities programme in schools across the UK.
No matter whether you’re with EE, O2, or VodafoneThree, you’ve probably used Cellnex’s equipment without knowing it. These networks are their customers, and Cellnex builds and operates infrastructure for them.
Cellnex are the UK’s largest independent owner and operator of telecommunications infrastructure. They operate over 14,000 masts and antennae that mobile phones connect to to get online.
They’re probably one of the most important companies you’ve never heard of!
Cellnex approached us in 2023 to develop a workshop and resources that their staff volunteers could take into schools to build awareness of the work they do, but also provide skills guidance for the breadth of careers that the telecoms sector supports.
We worked with their engineering, community relations, planning and legal teams to develop a bespoke workshop all about the work Cellnex does, and how the connectivity they deliver supports citizens, businesses, and government.
Welcome to Sense City
In our two-hour challenge, pupils work together to design and build a cellular network for Sense City.
Pupils start out by thinking about the users of a cell network, and when and where they need connectivity. Someone who works from home has different needs to the ambulance service.
We then look at the different types of cell antennae, and the different structures and masts they sit upon using 3D printed models. Each team is given a block of the city, and has to procure the most suitable set of cell sites to provide connectivity. And importantly, justify the cost to the finance department!
The workshop concludes with an engineering challenge: can you build a working network for Sense City? Teams set up and program wireless devices, and send messages over their network to control smart infrastructure. We used the micro:bit, an easily programmable microcontroller featuring Bluetooth. Daniel (me) loves the micro:bit.
Hundreds of pupils across the UK have benefitted from the Connected Communities project.
We worked with United Way UK, a delivery partner in the project to identify suitable schools near Cellnex’s offices who would benefit from the opportunity and maximise social impact.
We’ve been to schools Moston & Prestwich in Manchester, Warwick, Leamington Spa, Motherwell, Reading, and Wokingham. Cellnex UK’s parent company is based in Barcelona, and we delivered engagement training there too. Yes, we will take the short straw and travel!
Volunteers need to feel confident and comfortable before visiting schools.
Visiting schools can be intimidating, so we delivered training at each of Cellnex’s UK offices to train volunteers how to engage with teenage audiences.
It’s not about turning up in the classroom with a PowerPoint and giving a presentation! (Seriously, don’t do that.) And don’t you dare describe your project management job as “I’m a PM and I’m responsible for the delivery of the change management programme this quarter. Every day is different, I work with lots of stakeholders and clients.”
We also supported the delivery in schools to allow everyone to deliver to their capability and comfort level.
How would you introduce yourself to a room of 14 year olds?
What activity would you run to excite, engage, and form positive memories?
We can work with you to develop a memorable and engaging session.
Already got materials that need polishing? Or staff who’d benefit from coaching? Get in touch, we’d love to assist.