Electronics repair kits for children

A subscription helps kids develop repair skills while addressing e-waste

Spotted: STEM-skilled workers are in short supply almost everywhere, with almost half of European businesses reporting that they struggle to recruit people with the STEM skills they need. Coupled with this, the world generates over 60 million tonnes of e-waste annually, with London alone contributing 120,000 tonnes every year. Much of this waste comes from discarded electronics that could have been repaired. Tackling this issue requires a shift in mindset – and skills. Enter Team Repair, along with its new, circular subscription programme that teaches children how to repair gadgets while simultaneously reducing e-waste.

Founded by five graduates of Imperial College London, Team Repair’s latest initiative delivers monthly kits containing broken electronics, such as retro gaming consoles or remote control cars, alongside the tools and guided instructions needed for repair. The aim is twofold: to provide children with practical repair skills, and to spark curiosity about science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM). Through the accompanying app and curriculum-aligned activities, kids learn how the gadgets function, while developing critical problem-solving skills.

What sets this innovation apart is its commitment to sustainability and real-world application. Unlike traditional STEM kits, which may focus on abstract concepts, Team Repair kits feature genuine, malfunctioning gadgets for children to disassemble and repair. “Our kits teach real-world science using real products” Co-founder and CEO Megan Hale explained to Springwise. Hale also notes the programme’s unique circular model: “We are also a circular service. We didn’t want to be creating waste when teaching children how to reduce their waste. When children have finished repairing the kit, it is returned to us, which means it can be reused for another child.”

Backed by organisations such as the Mayor of London and the Institution of Engineering and Technology, the company has already reached over 6,000 children in schools and has recently launched an at-home subscription service in time for the holiday season. Team Repair is also starting to work with companies to expand the programme to more schools across the UK. As Hale explained, “This means we are able to expand to underfunded schools, whilst also supporting companies with their CSR and Social Value objectives.” Aside from individual learning, the startup aims to instil a repair-first culture in society, countering the throwaway habits of modern consumerism.

Written By: Oscar Williams