Nurturing the innovators of the future – STEM Learning announces latest partnership with GSK

STEM Learning and GSK have today announced a pilot of six new fully funded GSK ENTHUSE Partnerships, bringing much needed support to groups of schools around the UK, enabling them to improve young people’s outcomes in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

STEM Learning and GSK are committed to encouraging more pupils, from all backgrounds, to progress in STEM studies and careers; supporting social mobility and underpinning the UK economy.

The GSK ENTHUSE Partnerships will enable groups of schools and colleges near to GSK’s UK sites to participate in a two-year programme with GSK and STEM Learning’s support.

This will improve students’ engagement with, excitement about and achievement in STEM, along with their awareness and understanding of STEM careers.

The schools participating in the GSK ENTHUSE Partnerships will build strong links with GSK including their many STEM Ambassadors.

Teachers will benefit from proven STEM-specific professional development, and pupils will have multiple opportunities to learn where STEM can take them.

For businesses, the partnerships will help build the STEM skills pipeline locally and nationally, improve employee motivation and skills through working with young people and develop relationships with future employees.

ENTHUSE Partnerships have significant benefits for teachers, young people and employers – transforming both the educational culture towards STEM in schools and young people’s achievement and aspirations.

STEM Learning has supported 57 partnerships since 2014, and independent evaluation shows them to be making a significant difference to young people’s outcomes in STEM subjects. 

Kerry O’Callaghan, Vice President, Global Brand, GSK, said:

“As a science-led global healthcare company, GSK is committed to looking at ways to further STEM education, helping to inspire the next generation, who will deliver ground-breaking ideas of the future. We are excited to join the ENTHUSE Alliance to increase access to high-quality learning opportunities in STEM subjects for girls and boys throughout the UK.” 

Yvonne Baker, Chief Executive of STEM Learning, said:

“GSK is helping us to change the lives of thousands of young people, inspiring them to fulfil their potential in STEM subjects, while also future-proofing the UK economy by building a pipeline of crucial skills. These partnerships give employers invaluable opportunities in terms of developing the skills of its current workforce, identifying and nurturing future talent, and working with STEM Learning to set the agenda in terms of STEM education in the UK.”

Dr Cara Matthew, Acting Deputy Head from Monifieth High School said:

“We are thrilled to take part in this GSK ENTHUSE Partnership – it will enable us to work with other local schools and colleges to build a sustainable model of collaborative support, where we share good practice and expertise, providing pupils with a different experience of science and technology.  Our aim is to increase the uptake and performance of our pupils in STEM subjects and to provide our young people with a greater insight into potential career pathways.”

About STEM Learning: The largest provider of STEM education and careers support to schools, colleges and other groups working with young people across the UK. Supported by a unique partnership of Government, charitable trusts and employers, the Network is dedicated to raising young people’s engagement and achievement in STEM, and increasing the numbers of young people progressing in STEM studies and STEM-related careers. 

About GSK: A science-led global healthcare company with a special purpose: to help people do more, feel better, live longer. We have three world-leading businesses that research, develop and manufacture innovative pharmaceutical medicines, vaccines and consumer healthcare products. Our goal is to be one of the world’s most innovative, best performing and trusted healthcare companies. 

About ENTHUSE Partnerships: ENTHUSE Partnerships enable groups of schools and colleges to improve young people’s achievement and engagement in STEM subjects and inspire young people to pursue STEM subjects and careers. 

About ENTHUSE Alliance: Includes BAE Systems, Biochemical Society, BP, ERA Foundation, GSK, Institution of Engineering and Technology, Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Joseph Stannah Foundation, Rolls-Royce, Royal Commission for the 1851 Exhibition, IBM, Institution of Structural Engineers, Royal Society of Chemistry, Wellcome Trust and Department for Education.