Natalie Clerke, from the National STEM Learning Network, explains how to become a STEM Ambassador and why it is an important role.
STEM Ambassadors are volunteers from a broad range of jobs and backgrounds who are passionate about inspiring young people to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) studies and careers.
With a community of over 30,000 volunteers nationally, they are an important and exciting, free-of-charge resource for learners, teachers, youth and community groups and other individuals working with young people across the UK.
As professionals and specialists in their fields, STEM Ambassadors bring real-life industry experience into context and enrich young people’s knowledge of the breadth of STEM-related careers and opportunities available.
STEM Ambassadors get involved in a wide variety of activities both in and outside of the classroom, all of which can have an impact on young people’s learning and enjoyment of STEM subjects, including:
- Supporting lessons and STEM clubs
- Careers talks and networking events
- Providing advice to teachers or practical support for STEM projects
- Science or careers fairs
- Helping develop resources or other forms of support.
How to become a STEM Ambassador?
Anyone who is over the age of 17, who uses STEM skills and is willing and able to excite young people about STEM subjects, can apply to become a STEM Ambassador. Simply register at: www.stem.org.uk/stem-ambassadors to volunteer and start making an impact today. Y
ou will be required to carry out an induction and complete an enhanced DBS check to become a STEM Ambassador. STEM Ambassadors must take part in a minimum of one activity each year, which could be a careers event, a classroom visit, a Skype chat or even a youth group visit.
To ensure that our members who undertake public engagement are fully prepared and supported at their events, we will be hosting STEM Ambassador training sessions in 2018.
Why become a STEM Ambassador?
The STEM Ambassadors programme is working to make a difference in STEM education and address the UK’s skills gap. STEM Ambassadors are role models for young people of all backgrounds and abilities, helping them to understand real-world applications of STEM subjects and experience hands-on STEM activities. This can raise young people’s engagement and achievement in STEM and can increase the numbers of young people progressing into STEM studies and careers. People at any stage of their career, who are enthusiastic about engaging with young people to promote STEM subjects and professions, are encouraged to volunteer.
As a STEM Ambassador, you will be joining a community of volunteers already raising awareness and aspirations in STEM and helping young people to make informed decisions about their future careers. We’ll support you to become an effective part of our volunteer network and you’ll get the opportunity to develop new skills and gain increased satisfaction from your work. Being a STEM Ambassador is rewarding and challenging and can contribute to both personal and professional development.
Volunteering as a STEM Ambassador is your chance to share your enthusiasm for STEM and inspire the next generation of employees. Evidence shows that 90% of young people who engage with STEM Ambassadors say that it increases their engagement with STEM, helping them to make informed decisions about their future careers.
“Becoming a STEM Ambassador is a great opportunity for professionals and researchers across the sector to help young people make informed decisions about their career opportunities and direction. Working in this sector offers exciting opportunities that many young people may not know exist. It is all about inspiration: creating a ‘biochemical reaction’ to encourage young people to consider prospects of which they may not have previously been aware.
“Volunteering is not only a fun and enjoyable experience but also raises the profile and understanding of the sector to more young people, thereby addressing current and forthcoming skill shortages.”
Dr Ajay Sharman, Regional Network Lead for London and the South East at STEM Learning
“When I talk to groups of students, it’s great to excite young people about STEM subjects and explain to them that what they are learning applies to real life. It’s great to provide a platform where we can challenge their understanding and skills, which is different to their normal learning environment.
“There are lots of great benefits to becoming a STEM Ambassador including: a sense of excitement when you engage students and they genuinely become interested and ask questions, helping to make a difference in the local community, as well as developing new skills, such as being able to communicate with a younger audience.
“By encouraging students to ask questions it also helps students to build their self-confidence and motivation for their future.”
Pav Jeeta IBMS Member and STEM Ambassador
For more information, and to apply to be a STEM Ambassador, visit stem.org.uk