Please note that we now have a new Google Calendar.  This will be updated on a regular basis and will provide Schools and Ambassadors with information about our planned events and activities. If you see an activity on there which you may be interested in volunteering for, please contact the office for further information and also remember to clear this with your company contact/line manager.

Through analysis of STEM [Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths] research reports the following facts have been identified;

• The 16 – 18 year old population is in decline.
• There is a decline in Maths and Science uptake at A level and HE.
• The overall STEM position nationally is strong but this is NOT the case for Physical Sciences and Engineering.
• Adult perceptions of STEM jobs are negative and key influencers are poorly informed.
• Young people who do enter Engineering, have been influenced by a role model in the field.
• The largest proportion of STEM opt-out is post GCSE.
• STEM uptake is gender biased.

How can STEM Ambassadors make a difference?

Volunteering as a STEM Ambassador is your chance to promote your skills to young learners, actively encourage them to enjoy STEM subjects, and inform them about the unique career opportunities that are available to them. By volunteering as an Ambassador, you could be opening up life-changing opportunities for many young people in your area.

Anyone who has a desire to inspire children and young people in STEM subjects can become an Ambassador. The main qualities that all Ambassadors share are enthusiasm and commitment, along with a passion for what they do.

‘I really enjoy my work as a STEM Ambassador, especially with Primary Schools. The children get very enthusiastic and engrossed in all the activities, as do a lot of the teachers, which I personally find very rewarding. Many schools do not have a good understanding of engineering or what engineers do, so I am happy that I can help introduce some simple ideas based around electrical engineering that young people can enjoy and learn from. All the schools that I have worked in recently seem to genuinely appreciate the slightly different approach that STEM Ambassadors can bring into the classroom. ‘

Keith Clarkson
STEM Ambassador

STEM Ambassadors are inspiring role models to young people, switching their minds to the excitement and potential of STEM subjects and careers. They themselves also gain tremendously from the programme.
 

As an Ambassador you have the opportunity to:

• gain a fresh perspective on day-to-day work when seen through the eyes of students
• face a different challenge to that of everyday work
• enjoy a sense of achievement after delivering an activity
• help make a difference in the local community
• challenge stereotypes young people have about STEM subjects and related careers
• strengthen your own skills, including communication, planning and presentation skills
• have lots of fun and enjoy the buzz and energy from the young people!
   

By supporting students in their STEM learning, you will bring them the following benefits:

• Science, maths, design and technology, and engineering become relevant to the everyday experience of students.
• Better motivation, more confidence and enthusiasm
• Opportunities to improve key skills as well as increase understanding in science, maths, design and technology, and engineering
• Better understanding of the opportunities that a career in science, technology, engineering and maths can offer

Recently Rowan and Phil, STEM Ambassadors from React Engineering went along to Ashfield Junior School to deliver the K'Nex challenge 2010 to 64 eager Year 6 pupils.

The two sessions went well, with the pupils constructing windmills with the help and guidance from the STEM Ambassadors. Please click on the link to see quotes from the Teacher and Ambassadors.

Join the Ambassadors Programme here!

To view or print the Ambassadors Induction Information Booklet click this link.