Fully Funded STEM Workshops for Children with SEND
Help your child build confidence through hands-on robotics, coding, and engineering. Available across Norfolk — completely free through Short Breaks funding.
Who Can Access Short Breaks?
Short Breaks funding supports children and young people with SEND in Norfolk. If you meet the criteria below, your STEMEX sessions can be fully funded.
Age 5–17
Children and young people aged 5 to 17 inclusive can apply.
Norfolk Resident
You must live in Norfolk and provide proof of address.
SEND Support Needs
No EHCP is required — eligibility is based on support needs.
Flexible Sessions
Choose 1:1 or group workshops tailored to your child’s needs.
What We Run at STEMEX
Hands-on, supportive sessions designed to build confidence, creativity and practical STEM skills — at the right pace for each child.
Robotics & Engineering
Build mechanisms, explore sensors and learn how machines work through playful engineering challenges.
Coding & Game Design
Create interactive games while learning logic, sequencing and debugging in a supportive environment.
Science Investigations
Fun experiments that develop curiosity, safe lab habits and real scientific thinking.
Confidence & Communication
Structured activities that support focus, turn-taking, communication and emotional regulation.
Creative STEM Builds
Make and take projects combining art + STEM: circuits, structures, and design thinking.
1:1 Tailored Sessions
Highly personalised sessions that match needs, interests, sensory profile and preferred learning style.
Session Formats
Choose the format that best fits your child — we’ll tailor content, pacing and support.
1:1 Support
Best for children who benefit from predictable pacing, reduced social demand, and focused support.
- Personalised activities and goals
- Sensory-aware environment
- Confidence building at the child’s pace
Small Group Workshops
Supportive groups with carefully structured activities to encourage social learning.
- Turn-taking and collaboration
- Clear roles and routines
- Shared success through builds
Holiday Sessions
Fun themed workshops during school breaks — structured, supportive, and high-engagement.
- Project-based themes
- Practical builds and experiments
- Great for maintaining routine
FAQs
Quick answers to common questions about funding, eligibility and sessions.
Do we need an EHCP?
No — you don’t need an EHCP. Eligibility is based on support needs and the Short Breaks criteria.
Where do sessions happen?
Sessions can be delivered at STEMEX (Norwich) and across Norfolk depending on the format and arrangements.
What if my child needs extra support?
We tailor delivery with SEND-aware support strategies and can adapt activities, pacing and environment.
How do we apply?
Apply via the Norfolk Short Breaks process, then use the form below to enquire/book sessions with STEMEX.
Apply / Enquire
Complete the form below and we’ll respond with next steps and suitable session options.
How to Get Started
A simple process — apply for Short Breaks, then book your STEMEX sessions.
Apply for Short Breaks
Visit norfolk.gov.uk/shortbreaks with your child’s details and proof of address.
Receive Approval
Norfolk County Council will assess and confirm your Short Breaks allocation.
Book STEMEX Sessions
Contact us to book sessions matched to your child’s needs and schedule.
What Parents and Teachers Say
“Learning plus fun — the children loved it and we’ll definitely be coming back.”
“Friendly staff and a great environment — my child was engaged from the start.”
“Very stimulating and well designed — brilliant models and great staff support.”
“Highly engaging and stimulating — even less-engaged pupils were enthusiastic. We’d love a little more curriculum-linked science for school visits.”
“Great explanations and activities, but the session felt overcrowded — smaller groups would help every child take part.”
“Phenomenal trip — pupils loved it. More time and a bit more curriculum-linked STEM would make it even stronger.”