May 14, 2019
A new partnership that aims to provide coordinated action to inspire more young people – in particular more girls – to study science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) has been launched.
The STEM Accord was created in partnership by WISE, ERA Foundation, STEM Learning, the Design and Technology Association and The Smallpeice Trust.
The new partnership will work in alignment with EngineeringUK, The Royal Academy of Engineering, and the IET. It is guided by the recommendations of the updated Perkins Review, which notes there is an annual shortfall of 59,000 engineers and technicians in the UK workforce.
Many organisations have been working to show girls and young women the diversity of careers that engineering can offers to increase the number of women in engineering.
Helen Wollaston, Chief Executive of WISE, the campaign for better gender balance in STEM, says: “Most girls in this country still think that science, tech and engineering aren’t for them. We can’t allow this to continue. By joining forces, we will make sure that all girls and their families get the message that these subjects open doors to the jobs of the future.”
The aim of STEM Accord is to create a small number of local pilot projects which will:
- Support teachers and parents in inspiring future generations of engineers
- Build on the government’s industrial strategy
- Bring a focus to regional and industry STEM clusters
- Increase STEM impact in disadvantaged areas
EngineeringUK’s Chief Executive, Dr Hilary Leevers, said: “We’re really pleased to see these organisations coming together to coordinate school outreach programmes in different regions for greater impact.
“The STEM Accord will use a collaborative approach similar to our national level coordination support for Tomorrow’s Engineers.
“It’s encouraging to see so many organisations now working together to improve the reach, quality and the impact of engineering and STEM engagement activities.”
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