How can quantum computing be taught in a way that is both accessible and practical in STEM lessons? Teachers from across Europe have developed innovative teaching materials for this purpose. On 19 June 2026, the educational initiative ‘Science on Stage Deutschland’ presented these materials alongside Dr Heike Riel, President of the German Physical Society. The project also received pedagogical support from the TU Braunschweig.
Quantum computing is one of the key technologies of the future and will bring about lasting change in numerous areas of science, business and society. Introducing pupils to this topic at an early stage is therefore essential to prepare them for future challenges and career paths. At the same time, the complexity of the subject matter presents many teachers with teaching challenges. This is precisely where the ‘Quantum Computing in STEM Lessons’ project comes in.
As part of the project, which was funded by the Wilhelm and Else Heraeus Foundation, tried-and-tested teaching materials were developed for use in secondary school physics, mathematics and computer science lessons. The project received didactic support from subject-matter experts, including Professor Rainer Müller, Head of the Department of Physics and Physics Education at TU Braunschweig and Leader of the Topical Group Education & Outreach within the QuantumFrontiers Cluster of Excellence. The materials convey fundamental concepts of quantum computing – from the basics of quantum mechanics to introductory quantum algorithms – and promote analytical and critical thinking, teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Dr Heike Riel, IBM Fellow, Head of the Science of Quantum and Information Technology division at IBM Research and President of the German Physical Society, commented: “From the perspective of research and industry, we see every day the potential that quantum computing holds for the future and how it can become a key driver of innovation and value creation in the economy. This makes it all the more important that teachers develop well-founded yet practical approaches to teaching right from the start. The materials presented here make an important contribution to this.”
Together with Dr Riel, the educational initiative ‘Science on Stage Deutschland’ presented the teaching materials on 19 June 2026 at KiezLab Berlin and opened the event with a keynote address on the importance of quantum computing for education and society. As well as gaining insights into the project work, participants were treated to practical demonstrations, had the opportunity to engage in discussions at project stands, and took part in workshops for teachers. The next step will be to disseminate the materials across Europe through training courses, webinars and conferences.
About Science on Stage Deutschland e.V.
Science on Stage Germany is part of Science on Stage Europe, the largest European network of teachers. Through the Science on Stage education festivals, workshops and professional development courses, the network provides STEM teachers with a platform to present their best teaching ideas, exchange ideas with colleagues across the country and internationally, and learn from one another. The initiative has been in existence since 2003 and its activities reach 100,000 teachers from all types of schools in 34 countries. Science on Stage Deutschland e.V. is funded by the employers’ association Gesamtmetall.
