Pupils from Ysgol Bro Gwaun who took part in a renewable energy project were rewarded with a trip to Valero's Pembroke Refinery recently. The project was a partnership between the school, TYF Connect and Valero.

Working through the TYF eduCAT programme - which aims to give students in Pembrokeshire an insight into industry and engage with the problems of social, economic and environmental sustainability - Valero engineers designed an energy themed challenge for GCSE Welsh Baccalaureate students from Ysgol Bro Gwaun. The challenge set for the students by Valero was to investigate the viability of renewable energy resources at Pembroke Refinery, and involved the students evaluating the pros and cons of wind, wave and solar power according to various criteria such as cost, space and maintenance.

Valero engineers visited the school to introduce the challenge along with some background information to assist the students throughout the course of the project. Upon Valero's return to the school, the students presented their ideas. The best group was selected on the day and invited to visit the refinery. The students came and first experienced an energy meeting before being fitted with protective clothing for a site tour.

Liz Hooper, associate head teacher of Ysgol Bro Gwaun, said: "Valero and TYF's input has enabled our pupils to gain and apply essential interpersonal skills in a practical, real and valid challenge within our local community. The background issue and challenger both relate to current social and economic trends. This platform has allowed pupils to examine and challenge perceptions and influences, as well as help them to recognise their areas for improvement and to develop their strengths."

Aoife Ledwidge-O'Brien, one of the Valero engineers who took part in the scheme, said: "It was a pleasure to design the Valero challenge for the Ysgol Bro Gwaun students and give them an early insight into the workings of large scale industries. At the refinery we are always looking to develop innovative ideas to maximise the long-term sustainability of the refinery, and it is great to be able to engage with a new generation of people on these incredibly important issues."